Power cuts often happen with no warning, but there are things you can do to keep yourself safe when there’s no electricity.
- Don’t use candles unless you have no choice – if you do light candles, make sure they are extinguished when you leave the room or go to bed. More advice is here.
- If the power goes off, turn off most electrical equipment, especially electric cooker hobs. Do leave on a light or a radio, as you will then know when power is restored.
- Never use a camping stove, portable barbecue, lit charcoal or generator in an enclosed space, as they are designed for outdoor use only. These devices require adequate ventilation and can produce poisonous carbon monoxide.
- If you suspect that there is also a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve, open all doors and windows, and don’t smoke or turn on any electrical switches or appliances until you have been given the all-clear. The power cut could end at any time.
When storms are threatened, it’s a good idea to prepare for the possibility of a power cut:
- Make sure you know where your torches are, and that they have working batteries – think about getting wind-up torches, as they’re safe, cheap and never run out of power.
- Charge phones, tablets, power banks and any other essential devices, and make sure you’ve got all the numbers you might need.
If you do lose power, call 105 and you will be put through to your local network operator who can give you help and advice. You can also visit www.powercut105.com
Business fire safety
If you are the Responsible Person for a care home or residential premises, there are things you need to consider ahead of any loss of power. See Being Prepared for a Power Cut.