Some outages come with forewarning. If this is the case consider how you can be prepared by following the advice provided by your energy supplier.

Register with your supplier if you consider yourself to be vulnerable.

Look out for elderly neighbours and ensure they are prepared for a possible power cut.

Check your trip switch and also check with neighbours to see if they have also lost power.

Call 105 to report or get information about power cuts in your local area.

Call 105 if you spot damage to electricity power lines and substations that could put you, or someone else, in danger.  If there is a serious immediate risk, you should also call the emergency services on 999.

Call your electricity supplier for any other issues, for example, if you are having metering or boiler problems.

Remember never to put yourself in danger and to alert the emergency services if a dangerous situation arises.

Where possible, consider making alternate arrangements to stay with family or friends if you are impacted by the power cut.

Take care whilst using candles, naked flames and portable heaters. Never leave lit candles in unoccupied rooms or with unsupervised children or animals.

Avoid opening the fridge or freezer door to protect the food.

Remember that many modern home phones, particularly cordless ones, may not work during a power cut.

Leave one light switched on so you know when the power returns.

Limit the use of your laptop or smart phone to retain battery power.

Keep an eye on any elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

Be on alert for bogus callers posing as utility company workers. Always ask to see a Company Identification Card.

Unplug any sensitive appliances until your power comes back on.

Do not turn on your electricity if you have been flooded. Get it checked out by a qualified technician.

Do not touch any electrical power lines and keep your family and pets away from them.