Tips To Keep Safe During A Power Outage

We’ve all experienced power outages, and they can be incredibly frustrating. Even a brief five-minute blackout can feel like an eternity, especially without internet or lights, not to mention the worry about food spoiling in the fridge.

Since outages can occur at any time of year, it’s wise to prepare ahead. Creating an emergency plan and having a kit ready ensures you know how to communicate with loved ones and provides essentials like a flashlight to navigate in the dark.

Given the frequency of power outages and our reliance on electricity, let’s build on your emergency plan by addressing some common safety questions.

 

If You See a Downed Power Line

Stay clear and call 9-1-1 immediately. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous and should be treated as emergencies. Keep a distance of at least 10 meters (about the length of a city bus) until help arrives, and never attempt to touch or move a fallen line.

 

Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Closed

Resist the urge to open the fridge for midnight snacks! Keeping the doors closed can keep food in a full fridge cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can preserve frozen food for up to 48 hours. If you anticipate a prolonged outage, consider asking a friend if they can store your food safely until power is restored.

 

Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be dangerous. Never use a gas stovetop or oven for heating during an outage, and avoid using camp stoves, barbecues, or propane/kerosene heaters indoors. Gas-powered generators and grills should always be used outdoors, away from windows. To stay warm, layer your clothing or seek shelter with a friend or family member who has power.

 

How Long Will the Power Be Out?

The big question! For the most accurate and up-to-date information about outages in your area, check the BC Hydro outage map.

High Streamflow Advisory For North Vancouver Island

A high streamflow advisory is in effect for the North Vancouver Island region due to forecasted rainfall over the coming week. Elevated river levels are expected to persist during this time.

Be aware of increased river flow. Hazardous conditions may be encountered during recreational activities near rivers and streams.
Watch out for potential debris flows during recreational use.

Visit the BC River Forecast Centre for up to date info.

Special Sheep Resident Draw Now Open

The Special Mountain Sheep Resident Draw for the 2025 hunting season is opening early this year!

  1. Special Mountain Sheep Resident Draw for 2025 Hunt Applications are open from September 20 to November 21, 2024.
  2. After the closing date, you can check the draw results by logging into your WILD profile or by contacting FrontCounter BC.

Find out more here.

Possible Hepatitis A Exposure At Dairy Queen In Courtenay BC

Island Health is alerting patrons who dined at the Dairy Queen Grill and Chill in Courtenay (1030 Cliffe Ave) about a potential exposure to hepatitis A. While the risk of transmission to the public is considered low, Island Health Public Health advises anyone who ate at the restaurant between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on September 10, 12, 13, or 14 to get a free hepatitis A vaccine within 14 days of their last visit. Individuals who have previously been infected with hepatitis A or who received two doses of the vaccine before the potential exposure do not need additional immunization.

Hepatitis A

Island Health

“The Risk of Transmission To The Public Is Considered Low”

More information is available here.

MAYA’XALA – Respectful Visitation of Nanwakolas Member Nation Territories

Every square inch of the Nanwakolas member First Nations’ territories is culturally significant, both in terms of their contemporary connections to their lands and waters, and the deep, ancient history embedded within them. Learn more about the importance of cultural and archaeological sites, and best practice in how to show maya’xala – respect – when spending time in the territories.

Canadian Coast Guard Participates In Remote Pilotage Study

The International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA), representing over 50 member countries, is embarking on a major study in collaboration with the Canadian National Centre of Expertise on Maritime Pilotage (NCEMP) and the Canadian Coast Guard. This study will thoroughly investigate the feasibility, readiness, and implications of remote pilotage systems, both for current conventional ships and for future vessels that may be navigated remotely or autonomously by software.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) emphasizes the critical role of qualified, licensed pilots in ensuring safe navigation, particularly in challenging areas such as ports where specialized knowledge is crucial. Maritime pilots are essential for the safe and efficient movement of ships in areas requiring expert local knowledge, contributing to the protection of coastal communities and national economic, social, and environmental interests tied to maritime trade.

Given the importance of maritime pilotage, IMPA is committed to rigorously evaluating any potential impacts on compulsory pilotage practices, including remote pilotage. Captain Simon Pelletier, IMPA President, states, “With the increasing discourse around remote navigation and pilotage, IMPA’s objective analysis is vital for guiding pilots’ organizations, authorities, and the industry in making well-informed decisions. Providing evidence-based guidance is central to maintaining marine navigation safety and fulfilling IMPA’s mission.”

Mario Pelletier, Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, adds, “As leaders in navigation innovation, the Canadian Coast Guard supports safe and efficient maritime trade, which is crucial for Canada’s economic growth. Our collaboration with IMPA and NCEMP will enhance our understanding of how emerging technologies in remote navigation and autonomy might shape the future and how global coast guards must adapt to these advancements.”

Captain Alain Arseneault, Executive Director of NCEMP, highlights, “Remote navigation trials are driven by varied motivations and reflect diverse operational scenarios. While much discussion surrounds remote pilotage, ensuring that technological developments do not outpace navigation safety is paramount. We need clear, evidence-based guidance both in Canada and internationally.”

IMPA’s project stands out by integrating the expertise of maritime pilots from over 50 countries, who collectively conduct more than 2 million pilotage acts annually. The study will explore pilotage as a socio-technical system and assess the impact of new protocols on risk, cost-effectiveness, and social acceptance. It will build on previous shore-based pilotage projects and validate insights through trials on conventionally navigated ships, primarily in Canada.

About IMPA

Founded in 1970, the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) represents pilots’ organizations in over 50 countries and a professional community of more than 8,000 maritime pilots. As a non-profit organization, IMPA is dedicated to advancing safety in maritime pilotage as a crucial public service. It facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experience among global pilots’ associations and serves as the formal voice of maritime pilotage in international forums. IMPA has held non-governmental consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1973, contributing significantly to the IMO’s technical work.

Learn more at the IMPA website.