National Grid has confirmed it has a range of measures in place for the winter period "to ensure we're fully prepared for any impact on our electricity network". The electricity transmission network is also urging households to obtain six essential items should their power supply fail.
National Grid's preparedness plan
On its website, National Grid adds: "We have additional operational and engineering staff ready and on stand-by, as well as extra Contact and Control Centre operatives available to manage the electricity network and to help customers with their enquiries. Our high tech systems and dedicated staff are prepared so that, whatever the weather, we can endeavour to restore power supplies quickly if they are disrupted."
You can register to receive email alerts about power outages here. In its guidance on preparing for power cuts, National Grid recommends households stock up on the following:
- A torch
- Batteries
- A power bank or solar charger
- A surge protector (to guard electric devices from sudden voltage changes)
- Back-up batteries for any electric medical equipment
- A wind-up, battery, or solar radio
Neighbourly preparations and vulnerable residents
It is also worth discussing arrangements with your neighbours so that, should a power cut occur, you are aware of whether between you there is a means of cooking and accessing hot water, using gas appliances and so on. You may also wish to swap telephone numbers in case they are needed.
Make sure any vulnerable neighbours have sufficient supplies and a means of contacting friends or family in an emergency. Should you, a family member, or a neighbour depend on electricity for medical equipment or communications and would be at risk during a power cut, you or they can sign up to National Grid's Priority Services Register here.
What to do if your power goes off
If your power goes off, first establish whether it is a power cut or a problem with your fuses. Speak to your neighbours, or during the night, check the street lights to quickly determine whether it is a power cut.
Keep your freezer shut. Most power cuts are short-lived, and your freezer will keep its contents safe for up to 12 hours. Switch off or unplug any sensitive and expensive electrical equipment. Electrical surges during power cuts can cause damage to digital devices, such as phones, TVs, laptops, and tablets, so turn them off or disconnect them from the mains to safeguard them.
Check on your neighbours, particularly those who are elderly, seriously ill, or disabled. Ensure they are warm, have adequate food, drink, and medication, and that any medical equipment continues to function properly.
