Power Outage
A power outage, also called a power cut, power failure, power blackout, is the loss of the electrical power network supply to an end user. Are you prepared to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours in the event of an interruption to power? If not, read on.
Before a power outage
Power outages can occur at any time but are more frequent in severe weather especially, high winds and winter weather like ice and snow. No matter what the weather it’s important to be prepared (before an outage). Here are some top tips on how to prepare (Source: PreparedBC: Severe Winter Weather and Storm Preparedness)
- Make and emergency plan
- Build a stay-at-home emergency kit and include a battery-operated radio and a flashlight with extra batteries
- Consider how you will keep warm if the power is out
- Have a licensed contractor perform furnace and fireplace maintenance ahead of winter every year
- Install carbon monoxide alarms if you have an attached garage, wood stove, propane heater or other fuel-burning appliances
- Keep doors of refrigerators and freezers closed during a power outage. Keep the cold air in and avoid spoiling food.
- Consider how people with disabilities or people requiring assistance could be impacted during a power outage:
- How will you leave home without elevator service (if applicable)?
- Do you have a plan for a backup power supply for essential medical equipment?
During an outage
Report the outage
Check BC Hydro for a list of current outages. If your outage isn’t listed, contact
BC Hydro: Phone: 1 800 BCHYDRO (1 800 224 9376)
Mobile phone: *HYDRO (*49376)
Online: Report it online
Inside your home
- Avoid opening doors and windows to keep the heat in if temperatures are low
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed to keep food cold/frozen longer
- Use battery-powered or hand-cranked flashlights or LED candles as a light source. Be careful with real candles; do not leave them unattended and be aware of children and pets.
- Switch off appliances, electronics and lights to prevent a power surge when service is restored.
- Listen to a local radio station for warnings, advice and instructions (on your battery-operated or hand-cranked radio). You can also use your computer or mobile device to access outage information.
Outside your home
A downed line is a danger; stay back and dial 911
Always assume that a downed, sagging, low-hanging or damaged power line is live, even if it’s not sparking or making any sound. You should never touch or try to move a downed power line. If you come across a downed or damaged line, follow these steps:
Stay back at least 10 metres (33 feet). That's about the length of a city bus. Dial 911 and let them know that a power line has fallen or is damaged. Keep your distance - remain at least a bus-length away. Check out this fallen power lines infographic for more information.Know the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning
In the event of a power outage, never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. Use gas-powered generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Learn more.
After a power outage
- Avoid turning on your heating system, electronic devices or appliances immediately after a power outage. This will give the electrical system a chance to stabilize
- Reset your clocks, automatic timers, and alarms
- Know how to handle refrigerated and frozen food after an outage (Government of Canada)
- Re-stock any supplies you used in your emergency kit
Top tips from BC Hydro
Check out the BC Hydro web site for advice and resources on power outages. Topics covered include:
Outages and safety
- Power outages
- Electrical Safety
- Trees and power lines
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Power outages
- View current outages
- Report and outage
- Prepare for outages
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Electrical safety
- At home
- Safet distance from downed power lines
- Working near power lines
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Emergency preparations
- Prepare for power outages
- Earthquakes, fires, floods
- Plan for evacuations
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Trees and power lines
- How BC Hydro manages trees near the system
- Trees and plants on your property
- Staying safe around overhead lines
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Powerlines and your health
- In your neighbourhood
- Electric and magnetic fields
- What the experts say
Learn more about the above at BC Hydro - Outages & safety
Get notified of an emergency in your area
Sign up for RDN's Voyent Alert! notifications. Registration for the service is free, simple and anonymous. You can choose how you would like to receive alerts, either through a mobile app, email, text message or phone call.
National alerts
Learn about Emergency Alerts and the National Public Alerting System | CRTC