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What to do

If you have a sudden power cut at home

Before you contact us, check to see whether your neighbours have electricity or if the streetlights are on.

If the streetlights are on and your neighbours have power:

Step 1

Check your trip switch to see if it’s in the ‘on’ position – if it is, call 105 or 0800 011 4193.

Step 2

If your trip switch is in the ‘off’ position, switch it back on.

Step 3

If it switches back off, one of your appliances may be faulty. Unplug all your electrical appliances and then reset your trip switch.

Step 4

If your trip switch will not reset, there may be a problem with your internal wiring and you’ll need to contact a registered electrician.

Step 5

Check your electricity meter. If the dial or display isn’t working, call 105 or 0800 011 4193.

What to do

While your electricity is off

Leave a light on

Leave a light on so you know when the power comes back on

Shut the fridge and freezer

A closed fridge will keep food cold for about four hours and the contents of a freezer can stay frozen for up to 12 hours

Unplug hot appliances

Turn off and unplug any appliances that get hot, such as heaters or hair straighteners, in case you forget they are switched on when the power comes back on

Save the battery

Limit using your phone, tablet and laptop to save the battery life

Unplug equipment

Unplug any sensitive equipment, such as TVs, computers and solar panels

Check on your neighbours

Check your neighbours are managing without power, particularly if they’re vulnerable

What to do

How to prepare for a power cut

It’s good to be prepared if you were ever to have a power cut at home, especially during storms and severe winter weather. You can be prepared for power cuts by:

  • Keeping a battery-powered torch in a safe place, along with blankets and warm clothes 
  • Checking you have your contingency care plan in place with your medical professional 
  • Storing important contact numbers on your mobile phone and keeping it charged 
  • Making a note of our emergency numbers and saving them in your phone – 105 and 0800 011 4193