BC Hydro is preparing for the possibility of damage due to the severe winter weather expected across the province and is asking residents to do the same.
Greater Victoria is expected to receive even more snow, with the likelihood that it will turn to freezing rain over the course of the next few days, prompting BC Hydro to prepare for damage to their system.
After monitoring the weather, BC Hydro is working to take precautions to help restore power quickly in the event that ice from freezing rain builds up on trees and causes branches to fall on power lines and equipment, according to a press release.
BC Hydro said in the statement that this storm system has the potential to cause serious damage, poor viability and challenging road conditions.
B次元官网网址淏C Hydro has been preparing for this event all week and has taken the necessary steps to ensure its crews can respond as quickly and safely as possible,B次元官网网址 said Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson.
B次元官网网址淎ll available BC Hydro crews, contractor crews, vegetation management crews and other support staff are on standby. However, road conditions are expected to be challenging B次元官网网址 and visibility is expected to be poor at times B次元官网网址 which may slow down the response times.B次元官网网址
The preparation comes as a recent conducted by BC Hydro found that more customers are feeling the impacts of severe winter weather during the holiday season over the past five years.
BC Hydro suggests residents take precautions as well by creating an emergency preparedness kit, making a plan for extended outages and following a few guidelines.
Victoria residents should be prepared with water, flashlights, batteries and non-perishable goods that can last for at least 72 hours, according to BC Hydro.
Additionally, in the event of a downed power line, BC Hydro asks that you call 911 and stay at least 10 metres away.
B次元官网网址淚cy road conditions also increase the potential for motor vehicle accidents involving electrical equipment,B次元官网网址 the release states. B次元官网网址淚n the event of a motor vehicle accident involving electrical equipment, if it is determined safe, drivers should drive out from under the power line and away from the source of electricity. Drivers should travel at least 10 meters B次元官网网址 the length of a bus B次元官网网址 before stopping.B次元官网网址
To learn more about preparedness visit
READ MORE:
hollie.ferguson@vicnews.com
Like us on and follow us on .