For more information, ask us for the brochure Prepare now for an earthquake in British Columbia. As a general rule, you should be prepared to be self-reliant by having adequate backup power for a minimum of two hours in the event of a power outage. If power is out for longer than two hours, you are responsible for moving to a hospital or area that has power. Portable Generators Home generators can be useful during a power outage, but they can also be very dangerous if they are not used properly. It is not permissible to connect a home portable generator directly to a house wiring system without the proper installation of a CSA-approved transfer switch acceptable to BC Hydro, and with local electrical inspector approval.
Serious accidents can result when a home generator is connected to an existing electrical system.
If a flow of energy from a home generator follows the electrical lines back to the transformer and the energy is transformed to a higher voltage, the lives of utility employees working on the lines nearby are endangered. If extension cords must be used, ensure they are properly rated, and CSA approved. For more information on the correct way to connect your standby or portable generator, call your electrical contractor or the electrical inspector in your area. When Power Goes Off Determine whether the power failure is limited to your home. If your neighbour's power is still on, check your own circuit breaker panel or fuse box.