By Ashley Legassic

Most British Columbians don’t know how to avoid downed power line dangers: BC Hydro

Dec 14, 2018 | 8:14 AM

VANCOUVER — BC Hydro is warning British Columbians about the dangers of downed power lines.

Meteorologists are predicting more stormy weather for the Southern Interior, and a recent BC Hydro survey finds most British Columbians do not know what to do if they encounter a downed power line.

According to BC Hydro, the survey found one-third of British Columbians have encountered a down or damaged power line, but many are not aware that they could be putting themselves and others at serious risk.

The survey says nearly 60 per cent do not know to report a downed or damaged power line to 911.

Roughly 35 per cent incorrectly think a live power line makes a buzzing sound, sparks or smokes — or are simply unsure how to tell if a wire is live. And about 25 per cent do not know how far to stay away from a downed or damaged power line.

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“This is of particular concern because a new report released by BC Hydro last month found that storms are increasing in severity and frequency in B.C.,” Hydro says in a news release. “As a result, the number of downed power lines have also increased by nearly 65 per cent in the past five years.”

Hydro crews responded to around 6,100 reports of downed or damaged power lines in 2013. That number increased to nearly 10,000 in 2017. The chances of encountering a downed line are much higher in the fall and winter months as strong wind, heavy rain and snow cause trees and branches to knock down electrical infrastructure, Hydro says.

The public is being reminded of important steps if they come across a downed or damaged power line, including:

• Stay back at least 10 metres — about the length of a city bus.
• Dial 911 and let the dispatcher know a power line has fallen or is damaged.
• Keep others in the vicinity at least a bus-length away until BC Hydro crews and first responders arrive on scene to make the area safe.