Powercut? What should I do?

Were you kept awake last night by strong winds?  Have you been reading that the Government is working to minimise the risk of any unplanned interruptions, whether from severe weather, malicious attacks, technical failure or industrial action?

Whatever the reason you, your family or your business could be the victims of a power outage.  Do you know what action to take?  Here are some helpful tips.

• Turn off all electrical appliances. But leave one light on – this is so you know when power is restored.
• Keep a torch and spare batteries nearby.
• Be careful when using candles and paraffin heaters. If you must use them, ensure they are not left unattended and keep them away from soft furnishing and children.
• Keep details of your energy network company in a safe place (your latest energy bill will have emergency contact details on the front).
• Keep fridges and freezers closed. Check the food when the power is back on to make sure it hasn’t thawed. If it has, do not re-freeze it.
• Look out for elderly and vulnerable neighbours. If a storm is forecasted, ensure they are prepared for a possible power cut. Also tell your neighbours and friends how you are managing and ask for help if needed.
• Keep a wind-up/battery radio ready so you can listen to local radio updates.
• If a storm is forecast, make sure your laptop/mobile phone is charged.
• Digital or cordless telephones may not work in a power cut. Keep a corded, analogue one nearby.
• When your supply is back on, you might need to reset electric timers, alarm clocks and so on.
• Stay away from fallen overhead power lines and keep others away too. Always assume that a fallen overhead line is live and call your electricity distribution company immediately to report it.