Navigating the Darkness: What to Do When the Power Goes Out
Residents of Yellowknife, Ndılǫ, and Dettah recently experienced a sobering reminder of the impact of power outages. Last Thursday evening, a four-hour blackout left many in the dark, and in temperatures plummeting below -20°C, the consequences extended beyond mere inconvenience. Understanding how to prepare for and respond to a power outage is crucial, especially during the harsh Canadian winter.
From Wildlife to Wiring: Understanding the Cause
Initially attributed to wildlife interference, the NWT Power Corporation determined the power outage was caused by a failed electrical connection within the Jackfish Lake substation. While the cause may vary, the impact remains the same: disruption and potential damage. This incident highlights the importance of robust infrastructure and proactive preparedness.
The Freeze Factor: Protecting Your Plumbing
The most immediate concern during a prolonged power outage in cold weather is frozen pipes. Several residents found their water lines had frozen, leaving them without running water. Artist Alison McCreesh shared her family’s experience, relying on neighbours for water, using the pool for bathing, and washing dishes in buckets while awaiting a steam company to thaw their lines.
“It’s definitely an inconvenience,” McCreesh acknowledged, but emphasized the importance of perspective. She noted that while disruptive, the situation wasn’t insurmountable. McCreesh’s experience underscores the need for preventative measures, as this was the first time her water intake line had frozen in her ten years of homeownership, despite previous issues with sewage lines in extreme cold.
A Surge in Calls: The Impact on Local Services
The demand for emergency services surged following the power outage. Jody Poitras of Pick’s Steam reported a relentless stream of calls – 73 homes and 10 commercial properties – requesting assistance with frozen water lines. “My phone does not stop ringing,” she stated, noting the unusual volume compared to the typical two water line issues they handle per week during the colder months. Poitras recalled a similar situation during a previous extended power outage, which took nearly a month to resolve.
The Risk of Burst Pipes: A Hidden Danger
Beyond the immediate inconvenience, frozen water lines pose a significant risk of bursting, leading to costly water damage. Poitras explained that older homes with smaller, copper pipes are particularly vulnerable, as the copper thins over time. Half-inch lines are especially prone to splitting.
Preventative Measures: Staying Ahead of the Freeze
So, what can homeowners do to protect themselves? Poitras recommends a simple yet effective strategy: alternate between turning off either the return or supply line and running the water for 15 minutes. Start this process within half an hour of a power outage beginning. McCreesh shared advice from a neighbour:
- Turn on a cold bathroom tap to a medium flow (about the size of your little finger).
- Identify the shutoff valves on incoming and return lines for the circulating pump.
- Turn one valve off for 20 minutes, leaving the other open.
- After 20 minutes, close the open valve and open the other.
- Alternate this process every 20 minutes.
- After power is restored, ensure both valves are open before turning off the tap.
In addition to these steps, Poitras stresses the importance of ensuring proper insulation of water lines under your home. Proactive preparation can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and the headaches that come with them.
Resources and Further Information
Stay informed about potential power outages and safety tips by visiting the NWT Power Corporation website: https://www.nwttpc.com/. Remember, being prepared is the best defense against the challenges of a winter power outage.
