Technical Safety BC urges southern Okanagan residents to take gas and electrical precautions as threat of flooding looms
VANCOUVER, April 25, 2018 /CNW/ - As residents of the southern Okanagan region brace for flooding caused by higher-than-usual snowpack, Technical Safety BC is issuing a reminder about the importance of taking precautions around gas and electrical appliances.
If a flood or evacuation is expected and time permits, try to:
- Have a licensed gas contractor remove gas equipment and systems.
- Have a licensed gas contractor cap the gas pipe leading to appliances.
- Relocate or remove electrical appliances and have a licensed contractor isolate electrical circuits
- Secure propane tanks to a stable structure to keep them from floating away.
- Shut off the main gas and electrical supply.
If time does not permit this, simply:
- Shut off the main gas and electrical supply.
- Ensure that all valves and power knobs on all appliances and systems are turned off.
- Shut off the water leading to and from hot water tanks.
- Secure propane tanks to a stable structure.
Returning home after flooding has taken place requires another set of procedures because electrical equipment and gas appliances exposed to flood waters can be dangerous if they are re-energized and used without being properly inspected by a licensed contractor. Moisture, debris and contaminants in flood-damaged equipment or appliances can sometimes be hidden and cause serious risks. It is important to have the area of occupancy and its contents declared safe by the proper authorities and experts following health & safety protocols.
To obtain contact information for licensed gas and electrical contractors, visit our Find a Contractor page.
About Technical Safety BC
Technical Safety BC, formerly BC Safety Authority, is an independent, self-funded organization mandated to oversee the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment. In addition to issuing permits, licences and certificates, it works with industry to reduce safety risks through assessment, education and outreach, enforcement, and research.
SOURCE Technical Safety BC
Media Relations: Technical Safety BC, 778 396 2164, [email protected]
Share this article