The work's not done yet for a crew of 44 B.C. workers who are in Connecticut, helping to repair power lines and clear wreckage following last week's super storm Sandy.

"We're committed to stay here and help as much as we can," said Mike Scott, a manager and storm coordinator with Allteck, a Langley-based power company. "We're here to help people so everyone's forging ahead."

Scott and his crew first left the Lower Mainland last Saturday to prepare for Sandy's arrival on the east coast. The crew has since been working in the area of East Hampton, Connecticut, about two hours northeast of New York City, to help restore power and remove downed trees.

While the days have been long - many have been working 16-hour shifts - Scott said locals have more than shown their support and appreciation for the crew that travelled all the way from Canada.

The 40-year-old chuckled as he described the "Team Canada" signs on the side of their work trucks, made using red electrical tape. Prior to the team's departure, Scott had also bought Canadian flag fridge magnets to affix to each truck's door.

"They're definitely working hard to represent," Scott said of his crew and their contribution to the post-Sandy recovery efforts.

The manager also noted that while the team deserved credit for working hard and in tough conditions, he noted their families back in B.C. also deserved a nod.

"[They're] back home suffering without their daddies and their husbands," he said. "I've got a lot of guys with me who_ had to forego Halloween with their kids and miss watching their kids get dressed up."

"It's definitely a commitment not just from the guys but also from the families."

Scott said it's unclear when the team will be able to return to Canada. Once work is complete in Connecticut, there may also be opportunities in New Jersey where the crew can help.

While the crew has dealt with heavy winds in B.C. and some workers even helped in the States last year following Hurricane Irene, Scott said the damage caused by Sandy was significant.

"It's a new experience for all of us," he said. "It's definitely something different for sure."

- Stephanie Ip is a reporter with The Province.