A series of hydro tests are taking place in the Puntledge River this week.
BC Hydro says these tests are all just to make sure that the river’s hydroelectric system is running normally. They also act as a reminder that river flows may change quickly, regardless of if it’s planned or unplanned.
Their spokesperson Stephen Watson says that one of the reasons why they communicate about system operations is because of public safety for the community.
“Awareness of the potential hazards from the Puntledge River hydroelectric system is through our public warning system,” says Watson. “The sirens and strobe lights are placed along the Puntledge River from the Comox Dam to Puntledge Park and will engage to warn of river flow increases.”
Crews will start the process by manually testing the sirens of the system, with any adjustments and repairs needed will be done the next day, before a full system test takes place.
While this happens, a public safety advisory will come into effect during the full test, encouraging people to stay away from the river system. Along with temporary signs put in place informing residents of the upcoming tests, other temporary signs are already in place, informing residents of the high flow conditions in the area.
The testing will start on Tuesday and finish on Thursday this week.
