BC Hydro is beginning its roll-out of digital Smart Meters to replace current disk-style hydro meters. Many residents on the North Shore are unaware of the safety concerns and health risks associated with so-called Smart Meters. These wireless devices will use radio frequency waves to monitor use and transmit information about each household's consumption. They are being enthusiastically promoted by government and industry as a "green initiative," supposedly enabling Hydro to efficiently monitor consumption during peak and "down" times, and encourage wise use of energy and resources.
However, the information-carrying radio waves, transmitting 24-7, will effectively blanket homes and neighbourhoods with radiation that could adversely affect not just humans but all living systems. As of May 31, the World Health Organization has reclassified emissions from all microwave wireless devices as a possible human carcinogen in the same category as DDT, car exhaust, lead, etc. The insurance industry does not insure against personal injury liability claims from exposure to wireless devices.
To learn more about what can be done, visit www. citizensforsafetechnology.org.
Whether residents believe the information or not, all of us should have a say regarding the installation of these meters into our homes and businesses without these meters being forced upon us.
Sally de la Rue Browne, North Shore representative Citizens for Safe Technology
