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What to do during a power cut

Here’s what you should do during a power cut:

First, check to see if it’s a power cut or a problem with your fuses. Speak to your neighbours, or during the night, check the street lights. You’ll soon know whether it’s a power cut or not.

Find your fuse box and check that the trip switch is set to ‘On’. (It’s the biggest switch and is usually red.) If it’s in the ‘Off’ position, turn off anything plugged into sockets (or pull out the plugs) and turn the switch to ‘On’. If the power doesn’t come back on, you can call our Contact Centre 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Don’t open your freezer. Most power cuts are short, and your freezer will keep the contents protected for up to 12 hours.

Turn off or unplug any sensitive and expensive electrical equipment. Electrical surges during power cuts can damage digital devices, such as phones, TVs, laptops, and tablets, so turn them off or unplug them from the mains to keep them safe.

Check on your neighbours, especially those who are elderly, very ill or disabled. Ensure they’re warm, have enough food, drink and medicine, and that any medical equipment is working.

Think community. Stay in contact with neighbours and share resources. A cup of tea or a spare set of batteries can make all the difference.

If you or your neighbours are experiencing any problems, we’re here to help. You can call our Contact Centre 24/7/365, and someone will always answer. We can arrange support with the British Red Cross to provide urgent help for vulnerable people.

Don’t wait if someone is experiencing health problems. You can call 111 if it’s a non-life-threatening emergency or 999 if it is. 

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