National Grid has confirmed it has a series of measures in place for the winter months "to ensure we're fully prepared for any impact on our electricity network". The electricity transmission network is also encouraging households to acquire six vital items should their power supply fail.
National Grid's winter preparations
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."
Six essential items to stock up on
In its advice on preparing for power cuts, National Grid recommends households stock up on the following:
- A torch
- Batteries
- Back-up batteries for any electric medical equipment
- A wind-up, battery, or solar radio
- A surge protector (to guard electric devices from sudden voltage changes)
- A power bank or solar charger
Additional advice for households
Households are also advised to discuss arrangements with neighbours so that, should a power cut take place, they know whether between them there is a way of cooking and accessing hot water, using gas appliances and so forth. It can be useful to also exchange telephone numbers for use if required.
Ensure vulnerable neighbours have adequate supplies and a way of getting in touch with friends or family in an emergency. If you, a family member, or a neighbour relies on electricity for medical equipment or communications, and would be at risk during a power cut, you or they can register with National Grid's Priority Services Register.
If your power goes out, first check whether it is a power cut or an issue with your fuses. Speak to your neighbours, or during the night, check the street lights to quickly determine if it is a power cut. Keep your freezer closed. Most power cuts are brief, and your freezer will keep its contents safe for up to 12 hours.
Switch off or unplug any sensitive and costly electrical equipment. Electrical surges during power cuts can cause damage to digital devices, such as phones, TVs, laptops, and tablets, so switch them off or disconnect them from the mains to protect them. Check on your neighbours, particularly those who are elderly, seriously ill, or disabled. Make sure they are warm, have sufficient food, drink, and medication, and that any medical equipment remains fully operational.
