Know your risks

What is the risk? Our lives depend on electricity. Severe weather or a major technical failure on the National Grid could cause a large-scale power cut .

This could last for several hours or, in a very serious case, for a few days. A long power cut would affect: Heating and lighting, Phone lines - mobiles and landlines (including charging your phone).

And could also disrupt water supplies, cash machines, and internet access.

What you can do BEFORE a power cut:

• Know the '105' number: 105 is the free, national number to report a power cut or get updates. It connects you to your local electricity network operator.
• Build an emergency kit: Keep a wind-up or battery-powered torch and radio. Normal radios are better than online ones, which won't work without Wi-Fi
• Keep a supply of bottled water and long-life food that doesn’t need cooking
• Stay charged: Keep a power bank charged so you can top up your mobile phone.
• Help for vulnerable people: If you or someone you know relies on medical equipment (like a ventilator or stairlift), you can sign up for the free 'Priority Services Register' with your energy supplier. This means you will get extra help and support during a power cut.

What you can do DURING a power cut:

• Check on your neighbours, especially those who are elderly or vulnerable.
• Keep your fridge and freezer closed as much as possible to keep food fresh.
• Unplug sensitive electrical items like TVs to protect them from a surge when the power comes back on. Leave one light switched on so you know when the power is restored.
• Never use camping stoves, BBQs, or generators indoors. They can produce deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
• Tune your battery radio to your local BBC station for updates
• Think about switching on one light so you know when power is restored.

What you can do FOLLOWING a power cut:

• Reconnect Gradually: Turn appliances back on one at a time to avoid overloading the circuits.
• Check Freezers: Dispose of any food that has defrosted for more than 4 hours.