Trim trees to mitigate power outage risk: expert

Falling snow and freezing rain aren’t just problems for roads and power systems, they can also bring down trees onto power lines.

The Ministry of Transportation and BC Hydro both say crews are doing what they can to prepare for more winter weather, however, a local arborist says there are things homeowners can do to mitigate risks too.

Norm Oberson with Arbutus Tree Services in Vancouver says it’s recommended people get a certified crew to look for trees or tree limbs at risk of falling each fall.

However, he notes if you haven’t done that, or have concerns, now is the time to make a call, saying trees that pose a risk should be “inspected as soon as possible.”

“The risks in large trees or species related. So if you’re concerned about limb drop in a snow storm, the trees most at-risk would be Douglas firs.”

BC Hydro echoes concerns around trees and branches.

“We do recommend that, if you do have trees or branches that are near a major electrical line … you can contact us and we can provide you with the contact for a certified arborist that can come in and work near those lines and help trim trees. Also, if you’re trying to trim your trees yourself from that small line in your yard that connects from your house, make sure you stay three metres back — yourself and all tools,” BC Hydro spokesperson Susie Rieder previously said.

She notes the utility has stepped up its vegetation management program in recent years to identify trees and vegetation that may pose a risk during storms, to deal with them proactively.

Meanwhile, although BC Hydro says its crews are standing by and ready to deal with any outages, they can still happen. It adds that’s why it’s a good idea to have a 72-hour emergency kit ready just in case.

Kits should include things like water, non-perishable food, medication, pet food, and items like external phone chargers and flashlights.

You can check for power outages online or by calling BC Hydro at 1-800-BCHYDRO.