Power Cut Checklist UK: How to Prepare

Before a power cut

• Keep a battery or wind-up torch with spare batteries. Use it instead of candles and save your phone battery.
• Store at least 3 days of bottled water (3 litres per person per day) and ready-to-eat food, plus a tin opener.
• Keep a battery or wind-up radio and write down your local news frequencies.
• Keep some cash for essentials in case card payments and ATMs go down.
• Write down the power cut number: 105 in England, Scotland and Wales, or 03457 643643 in Northern Ireland.
• Check whether you can join your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register.
• If you rely on a landline, telecare alarm or powered medical equipment, ask your provider how it works without power.

During a power cut

• Report it online through your network operator, or call 105.
• Switch off ovens, irons and heaters, and unplug TVs and computers to protect them from surges.
• Stay warm with blankets and layers. Close curtains and the doors of unused rooms.
• Keep fridge and freezer doors shut so food stays cold longer.
• Check on neighbours, especially anyone who may need extra help.
• Stay away from fallen power lines.

Frequently asked questions