Safety Around Hydroelectric Facilities
Dams, generating stations, and reservoirs are used for the generation of electricity. Hydroelectric generating facilities can be interesting places to visit; however, these areas may be dangerous to the unwary.
Some hazards are readily apparent and some are not. Hazards such as water flows, both upstream and downstream of dams and generating facilities, may change quickly and without warning.
Observe these safety precautions around hydroelectric facilities:
- Stay clear of generating facilities including dams, powerhouses, and all electrical equipment.
- Respect fenced and gated areas, and observe all danger and warning safety signs.
- Stay on designated trails and within marked observation areas.
- Supervise children closely.
- Stay outside of safety booms and buoys, and away from all dam structures.
- Be alert for audible (e.g. sirens) and/or visual (e.g. strobe lights) warnings.
- Be alert for changes in water levels.
- Never stand, anchor, or tie your boat below a dam. Water levels and flows can change rapidly and take you by surprise, swamping your boat or putting you in the grip of an undertow.
- Stay off hydroelectric dams or station structures, unless BC Hydro has clearly indicated public walkways or observation points.
- Stay well back from the edge of a waterway where footing may be slippery or the bank unstable.
- In winter, avoid snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, skating, walking or ice fishing on rivers or reservoirs near dams and generating stations where the ice may be thin due to the current or where changing water levels have created gaps under the ice.
Safety on Reservoirs
Reservoir water levels can rise or fall daily in response to the demand for electrical production.
A hydroelectric reservoir can be an enjoyable recreation destination, provided safety precautions are observed while boating or swimming:
- Be aware that changing water levels can result in floating debris and conceal hazards, particularly in shallow water near the shoreline. Diving or boating can be dangerous.
- Obey all warning signs and stay out of all restricted areas. Boating, fishing and swimming above or below a dam or generating station can be dangerous.
- Boaters must comply with all Canadian Coast Guard regulations and practice safe boating at all times.
