Power cuts can happen unexpectedly—often during storms, extreme weather, or due to maintenance issues with the local electricity grid. In the case of an emergency power cut, quick action and preparedness can make a big difference in keeping your household safe and functional.
Consulting Commercial Electrical Contractors can help implement backup systems for larger properties or businesses and ensure critical infrastructure is protected during outages. Being prepared and knowing how to respond can help you stay safe, comfortable, and in control until the power returns.
This checklist provides clear, practical advice for UK homeowners with a power cut.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
A calm and measured response is key during a power outage.
- Check if it’s just your home: Look to see if neighbouring houses still have power. If they do, the issue may be isolated to your property.
- Check the fuse box. A tripped circuit breaker could be the culprit—reset it if it is safe.
- Contact your energy supplier: Use the emergency contact number on your bill to report the issue or get updates.
- Call 105: This free national number will connect you to your local electricity network operator, who can confirm if there’s a wider outage.
Stay Safe and Avoid Hazards
Safety should always come first, especially in the dark or when using alternative power sources.
- Use torches, not candles: Battery-powered torches are safer than open flames, particularly around pets or children.
- Unplug sensitive electronics: Televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances should be unplugged to protect them from potential power surges.
- Avoid using portable gas stoves indoors. They can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, so only use them outside in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep fridge and freezer doors closed: This helps food stay cold longer and reduces spoilage.
Keep Warm in Cold Weather
Power cuts during winter can leave your home unheated. Take early action to retain heat.
- Layer up: Wear several layers of clothing, including socks and hats, to retain body heat.
- Use blankets and sleeping bags: Keep extra bedding in accessible places during colder months.
- Stay in one room: Gather family members in a single, well-insulated room and block draughts using towels or blankets under doors.
- Use hot water bottles: If you still have access to a gas hob or kettle, fill hot water bottles to keep warm.
Stay Informed and Connected
Being able to receive updates during a power cut is essential.
- Keep a battery-powered or wind-up radio: This can provide local news and weather alerts when other devices are unavailable.
- Charge devices beforehand: If a storm is forecast, ensure your mobile phone, power banks, and other devices are fully charged.
- Enable low-power mode: On your mobile phone, turn on battery saver and reduce screen brightness to preserve power.
- Follow your local electricity network on social media: Updates are often shared faster online.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
A small investment in preparedness can make all the difference during a power cut.
- Torch with spare batteries
- Battery-powered radio
- Power banks and charging leads
- First aid kit
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Blankets and warm clothing
- List of emergency contacts
- Cash (as card machines may not work during outages)
Store your kit in an easy-to-reach location and check it every few months to ensure everything works.
Power cuts are often beyond our control, but they can be managed safely and comfortably with some preparation and calm decision-making. Whether it’s a quick flicker or a prolonged blackout, following this checklist can help protect your household and minimise disruption.
Keep it printed or saved in your emergency kit—you never know when you might need it.
