Power cuts don’t happen as much as they used to, that’s why we all tend to get in a flap when it does happen. Here are a few simple hints and tips on how to be prepared and deal with a power cut in a non-flappy manner!

The power cut kit

Sounds a bit daft but is actually a good idea.  Get yourself a Tupperware box and in it put:

1. 2 torches (or 1 if you live alone)

2. A few LED candle lights, avoid using real candles as these pose more of a hazard

3. Contact details of your district network operator, there will be a specific number to call for when there is a power cut

4. Batteries, to power the lights and torches!

When the power cut hits

Just do a bit of curtain twitching first to assess whether the whole street has been affected.  If not, go to your power cut kit, grab a torch and check your fuse box as it could be a simple case of flicking a switch!  If the fuse box looks fine, you’ll need to call your electrician to find out what’s occurring!

If the whole street is in darkness, it’s likely that there is a power shortage in the area. First thing to do is inform your supplier of the problem (the details will be in your handy power cut kit).  They will hopefully be aware already and be able to give an estimate of when to expect the power back on.

In the mean-time, back to your power cut kit (this should have some dramatic music every time this is mentioned!) Set out the LED candle lights in the rooms that will be used the most.  Lounge, kitchen and bathroom are probably best.

If possible, keep the fridge and freezer doors closed at all times as this will stay cold/frozen for quite some time.  Go round and switch off all your appliances, especially if the power cut is still going on when you go to bed. You don’t want the iron or straighteners coming back on during the night.

The heating will go off so make sure you have blankets and warm jumpers to hand.  Keep moving too, that’s the best way to keep your body temperature up.

What else?

Tropical fish – make sure you have a plan in place to look after tropical fish if you have them

Neighbours – check to see if everyone is OK, especially elderly neighbours.

Alarm clocks – it’s a good idea to have a battery operated alarm clock if you need to be up for work!

Children – make it fun, play some card games, make a den and tell stories.  Anything to keep them from worrying or becoming bored.  Remember, a power cut will be a first for most children!

Now days, power cuts don’t generally last very long, phone your district network operator to keep informed about what’s going on so you can plan properly. You’ll find the details in the list below

Contact details for all district network operators

Central and Southern Scotland - SP Energy Networks - Emergency: 0800 092 9290

East Midlands - Western Power Distribution - Emergency: 0800 6783 105

Eastern England - UK Power Networks - Emergency: 0800 316 3105

London - UK Power Networks - Emergency: 0800 316 3105

Merseyside, Cheshire, North Wales and North Shropshire - SP Energy Networks - Emergency: 0800 001 5400

North East England - Northern Powergrid - Emergency: 0800 668 877

North East and Yorkshire - Northern Powergrid - Emergency: 0800 375 675

North Scotland - SSE Power Distribution - Emergency: 0800 300 999

North West England - Electricity North West - Emergency: 0800 195 4141

South East England - UK Power Networks - Emergency: 0800 316 3105

South Wales - Western Power Distribution - Emergency: 0800 092 9290

South West England - Western Power Distribution - Emergency: 0800 6783 105

Southern England - SSE Power Distribution - Emergency: 0800 072 7282

(uswitch.com 2015)