WHAT TO DO IN A POWER CUT
If you have been informed of a planned power cut, or you think severe weather could cause a power cut, please have a look at our advice below and visit our Be Prepared page. If you think you may need extra advice or support in a power cut due to your medical or personal circumstances, make sure you join our free Priority Services Membership. Also, if your home has to be temporarily powered by a generator you must isolate your solar panels to prevent the generator from cutting out and causing a power cut for you or your neighbours. Your installer should have provided you with information on how to isolate, but if you're unsure contact your installers or manufacturer for further information.
Have a battery-powered or wind-up radio tuned into a local radio station
Keep a torch handy - much safer than candles
Make sure you have a charged mobile to hand with all important numbers stored
If you have a stair lift, avoid using it up to 30 minutes prior to a planned power cut
Only use alternative forms of heat or lighting if they're safe
Regularly back-up work and important files on your computer before a power cut
Make a hot water bottle and fill a vacuum flask with something warm
Make sure you wrap up warm with extra clothes and/or blankets
Ensure cupboards are stocked with food and drink
Kitchen appliances will be ok during a power cut
Home and fire alarms may be affected during a power cut
Fish and livestock may be vulnerable during a power cut
Why have I got a power cut and who should I contact
How to reset your trip switches
Keeping you updated during a power cut
Checking your power in your home
Planned power cuts
Intermittent Power Faults
Most visits made by us are at your request. However, sometimes we may need to visit your home to inspect or maintain our equipment during a power cut.
The visit will be made by one of our staff or a contractor working for us. We follow a code of practice so you can be confident all visits are made by a properly-trained, genuine member of staff. Our staff will carry identification, wear clothing and drive vehicles with our logo on, and be able to give you exact information about why they are visiting your home.
If you have any doubts about whether a caller is genuine, do not let them in your home.
If you own a small business, you may need to decide whether you want to continue trading during a power cut.
For planned work, we'll let you know in advance about the power cut so you can prepare or make alternative arrangements.
Read our guidance to help you to better understand why power cuts happen and to help get you and your business prepared.
If you have experienced a prolonged power cut, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Please see our Help & Advice section for advice on compensation.
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