Storm wreaks havoc
A storm system that walloped the Powell River region from January 19 to 21 left residents without power and ferry passengers stranded. Another gale warning blew into the region on January 23.
Approximately 6,000 customers were without power from 4 am-7 pm on January 21, according to BC Hydro. Gale-force winds brought down trees and branches, and tangled power lines. Transmitters had to be repaired, including one on Marine Avenue close to Brooks Secondary School. Eight BC Hydro crews were called out to deal with aftereffects of the storm.
Restoring power on Texada Island was delayed due to cancelled ferry sailings. A number of sailings between Comox and Powell River were also cancelled.
Smoking ban takes effect
As of Monday, January 22, all BC Ferries vessels and terminals are now smoke-free environments, including the interiors of all vehicles on ferry corporation property. Smoking tobacco or any other substance is banned, including e-cigarettes and vapour cigarettes, according to a BC Ferries media release.
The change means smoking areas on ship decks will be removed. The ban applies to passengers and ferry employees.
BC Ferries announced the policy change last summer. Extra personnel will not be assigned to enforce the ban and tickets will not be issued. Instead, there will be an education campaign and staff members will explain the new policy to customers and ask them to comply.
