BC Hydro wishes to remind users of the Arrow Lakes Reservoir, the Columbia River, the Kootenay River and the Pend d’Oreille River that sudden adjustments in water flows from hydroelectric facilities can occur without warning and cause strong surface currents and undercurrents in the vicinity of the intake structures and the downstream plant outlets. Entering the water, whether for swimming, boating or other recreational activities, is extremely dangerous. For your personal safety, please observe all warning signs and stay well back from BC Hydro operating areas and structures. Observe these safety precautions around hydroelectric facilities:

• • Stay clear of generating facilities including dams, powerhouses and all electrical equipment. • Respect fenced and gated areas and observe all danger and warning safety signs.
• • Stay on designated trails and within marked observation areas.
• • Supervise children closely. • Stay well outside of safety booms and buoys and away from all dam structures.
• • Be alert for audible (e.g. sirens) and/or visual (e.g. strobe lights) warnings.
• • Be alert for changes in water levels.
• • Never stand, anchor or tie your boat below a dam. Water levels and flows can change rapidly and take you by surprise, swamping your boat or putting you in the grip of an undertow.
• • Stay off hydroelectric dams or station structures, unless BC Hydro has clearly indicated public walkways or observation points.
• • Stay well back from the edge of a waterway where footing may be slippery or the bank unstable. Reservoir water levels can rise or fall daily in response to the demand for electrical production. A hydroelectric reservoir can be an enjoyable recreation destination, provided safety precautions are observed:
• • Be aware that changing water levels can result in floating debris and conceal hazards, particularly in shallow water near the shoreline. Diving or boating can be dangerous.
• • Obey all warning signs and stay out of all restricted areas. Never cross a safety boom. Entering the water above or below a dam or generating station can be dangerous.
• For more information, visit bchydro.com.