Power outage

Library building from the outside in winter; lights out inside

Power outages on campus

Have the lights gone out?

If the power is out on campus, you might not be able to access this page! Make note of these points so you’ll know what to do if the power goes out:

Outages in localized areas

  • Leave the area.
  • Tell Security – by phone at 250.391.2525, or extension 2525 from your on-campus landline.
  • Security will contact the Operations and Resilience team.

Outages inside buildings

  • Evacuate the building as directed by your emergency warden.
  • Gather in the nearest evacuation assembly area.
  • Tell Security – by phone at 250.391.2525, or extension 2525 from your on-campus landline.
  • Security will contact the Operations and Resilience team.

Stay calm

Outages usually don’t last long. Stay calm, but don't carry on.

You may see that emergency lighting has switched on. It will help you find your way out of buildings.

You may hear generators start. They are restoring power to our computer servers.

Your email should still work on your smartphone.

Wait for the Operations and Resilience team to resolve the situation.

You'll receive an email from Security, Operations and Resilience or Communications if our campus needs to be closed or evacuated.

Stay back!

If you see a fallen power line, assume it is energized and extremely dangerous. Stay at least 10 meters (33 feet) away from downed lines.

Help others

Get to know if anyone on your floor or in your classroom might have mobility issues or special accommodations. During the power outage, check in with them to see if they need assistance.

Contact Security if you need additional help.