Anyone experiencing a power cut should:
- Visit www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercut and type in their postcode to view a live power cut map, with details of individual power cuts
- Call 105 free of charge to speak to the UK Power Network customer service team, report a power cut or damage to the electricity network
- Tweet @UKPowerNetworks to report a power cut or to receive updates
- Visit www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk for the latest updates
We urge the public to stay well clear from power lines and anyone spotting a damaged power line needs to report it to UK Power Networks straight away.
Preparing for a power cut
Below is some advice on how you can prepare for a power cut:
- Make sure you know how to contact UK Power Networks by using the details above
- Keep spare batteries for radios and torches - local radio stations often broadcast helpful information
- Keep your mobile phone fully charged, as landline phones may not work during a power cut
- Dress in clothes that will keep you warm and dry. Ideally, you should aim to wear several layers of thinner clothing rather than one heavy layer
- If you have no heating, try to stay in one room, or get into bed to keep warm
- Take care if using candles, tea-lights and other naked flames
- Keep fridges and freezers closed. If you lose power, put a blanket over them as they will stay colder for longer
- Switch off all non-essential electrical equipment to conserve power
- Keep one light switched on (even if the bulb is not lit) to let you know when the power comes back on
- Look out for your neighbours; including those who may be elderly, or unable to look after themselves and consider providing them with hot water or hot food