The potential for downed power lines rises with wind warnings issued Friday across the B.C. south coast.
The first thing to do after coming across a downed or damaged power line is call 911, said Ted Olynyk, BC Hydro community relations manager.
The advice is simple: B次元官网网址渄own, danger, dial.B次元官网网址� Anyone who comes across a downed or damaged line should stay back and call 911 right away B次元官网网址� even if the danger isnB次元官网网址檛 obvious. ItB次元官网网址檚 better to be safe and let emergency crews access the area, Olynyk said.
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B次元官网网址淎lways treat the line as though itB次元官网网址檚 still energized,B次元官网网址� he said.
After calling 911, people can call and let BC Hydro know whatB次元官网网址檚 going on, but emergency crews will alert the electrical company themselves, he noted.
An electrical line doesnB次元官网网址檛 have to be fully down to require a 911 call. Whether a tree has fallen on a line, a cross-arm is broken, a power pole is leaning over or a line is sagging or dangling on the ground, there is a risk.
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Olynyk noted the importance of staying at least 10 metres B次元官网网址� or the length of a city bus B次元官网网址� away from a downed line as it could still be energized or B次元官网网址渂ack-feedingB次元官网网址� into the system due to something like an improperly wired generator. Anyone closer than 10 metres to a downed line should shuffle, not walk, away, Olynyk said. Keeping both feet on the ground reduces risk of electrocution.
If someone in a vehicle spots a downed line or collides with a pole, itB次元官网网址檚 best to stay in the car if itB次元官网网址檚 safe, Olynyk explained. If thereB次元官网网址檚 no imminent danger, try to drive at least 10 metres away then call 911. If itB次元官网网址檚 necessary to leave the vehicle, jump out without touching the car and make sure to land on both feet.
Downed lines are more common in the fall and winter as wind storms can cause branches and debris to damage electrical infrastructure. BC Hydro asks that everyone be extra vigilant in the stormy months.
Olynyk recommends residents visit the BC Hydro for more tips and safety recommendations.
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