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Power outage & storm safety

Power outages and emergency situations can happen at any time. We work throughout the year to minimize their impact, however, it's important to always be prepared and understand what to do before and after an outage, as well as in emergency situations involving downed power lines.

Be prepared and stay safe during a power outage

Check out our latest safety videos to learn how to be prepared and stay safe during an outage or emergency situation.

Select first video about safety tips from a firefighter. Select second video about staying back 10 metres from a downed power line. Select third video about never touching or moving a downed power line. Select fourth video about safety when in a car accident. Select fifth video about things for emergency kit. Select sixth video about annual checks for your emergency kit. Select seventh video about food safety during an outage.
  1. Firefighter tips for staying safe near downed lines
  2. Stay back 10 metres from a downed power line
  3. Never touch or move a downed power line
  4. Shuffle to safety if you're in a car accident
  5. Top things for your emergency kit
  6. Annual checks for your emergency kit
  7. Food safety during an outage
     

See a downed power line? Stay back and call 911

A power line that's fallen on the ground, is hanging too low, is damaged or is contacting another object is a danger. A downed line is an emergency and it's important to know what to do if you come across one.

Never touch or try and move a downed, damaged or low-hanging power line because it may still be live, even if it's not sparking or making any sound. Be sure to stay back at least 10 metres (the length of a city bus) and report it to 911.

If you're involved in a motor vehicle accident involving a power line, follow these steps to keep yourself and others safe.
 

How to prepare for a power outage

Whether at home or at work, there are steps you can take to ensure your family and co-workers are prepared if the lights go out.

What to do if your power goes out

Lost power? Follow these steps:

  1.  Check the outage map to see if we're aware of the outage.
  2.  If your outage isn't shown, call 1 800 BCHYDRO (1 800 224 9376) or *HYDRO (*49376) on your mobile or report it online.
     

Get other tips on what to do during an outage and how we restore power.
 

Electrical safety learning activities

Check out our hub of fun and interactive activities that teach kids how to be safe around electricity.

Explore activities.