Current Burning Permissions
Effective 12 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026 the Category 1 open fire (campfire) prohibition in the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction will be rescinded. There remains a Category 2 and Category 3 Fire Ban.
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Power Outages
Experiencing a Power Outage
Power outages can occur at any time in any season. Wind, lightning, snow, motor vehicle accidents, and animals are all everyday causes of power outages in BC. It is important to be prepared before, during, and after a power outage.
If you are experiencing a power outage you can check for updates from BC Hydro on their Outage map. If your outage isn’t shown, call 1-800-BCHYDRO (1-800-224-9376), dial *HYDRO (*49376) on your mobile, or report it online.
Power Preparedness
Before An Outage
- Know the Risk. Make a Plan. Build a Kit.
- Perform routine checks on emergency equipment such as flashlights, radios, and generators to ensure they’re in working order.
- Install surge protector to keep electronics safe.
- If you rely on life-sustaining equipment ensure you have a back up power source at your home and an updated personal emergency plan.
- Sign up for CowichanAlert
During An Outage
- Never touch or move a downed power line. Stay back 10 meters back and call 9-1-1 to report.
- Turn off all appliances, especially those that generate heat. This will help prevent injury, damage or fire when the power is restored.
- Shuffle to safety if you’re in a car accident around downed power lines.
- Do not use camp stoves, generators, or propane heaters indoor be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide gas when use back up heating, cooking, and power sources.
- Keep the doors of your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible to keep your food from spoiling.
After An Outage
- Turn on the most essential appliances first. Wait 10 – 15 minutes before reconnecting other appliances.
- Once your fridge and freezer are turned back on, determine if any food has spoiled and discarded.
- Restock your emergency kit.
- Update your emergency plan and equipment based on what emergency preparedness practices worked and what could be improved during the outage.
