Power Cut SortedGet ready for next time

Power cut? Do this now.

Report it free on 105 in England, Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland, call NIE Networks on 03457 643643.

Call 105England, Scotland, Wales · free 03457 643643Northern Ireland · NIE Networks

Numbers from GOV.UK Prepare. Live outage maps: powercut105.com. If anyone is in danger, call 999.

The steps, in order

  1. Check if it's just your home. Look at your neighbours' lights and your fuse box. If a trip switch has flipped, reset it. If the street is dark too, it's the network: call 105.
  2. Switch off and unplug. Turn off anything that heats up (oven, iron, heaters) and unplug the TV and computer. Leave one light switched on so you know when the power is back.
  3. Keep the fridge and freezer shut. A fridge stays cold for up to 4 hours. A full freezer for up to 48 hours, a half-full one about 24.
  4. Stay warm safely. Layers, blankets and one warm room. Never use a barbecue, camping stove or generator indoors: carbon monoxide can kill. Use torches, not candles.
  5. Look out for others. Check on neighbours who may need help. If someone relies on medical equipment that needs power, act early and call 105 or 999.
  6. When it comes back, plug things in one at a time and check the fridge and freezer before eating anything.

Sources: GOV.UK Prepare: power cuts, Food Standards Agency, NHS: carbon monoxide.

Need extra help? Anyone with a medical condition, a disability, young children or who is over pensionable age can join the free Priority Services Register (in Northern Ireland, the Customer Care Register) for extra support in a power cut.

Is it a planned rota cut?

In a rare national electricity shortage, areas can be switched off in planned slots of about three hours, by letter. Rota cuts haven't been needed since the 1970s. You can find your letter at powercut105.com, and we explain it all in what your load block letter means.

Could you be due compensation?

In England, Scotland and Wales, network operators must pay you if a power cut lasts too long. This estimate uses Ofgem's rules for homes.

Payments are usually automatic if your network operator has your bank details. There's no payment for a national power shortage (including rota cuts) or for damaged appliances. In Northern Ireland different rules apply: see NIE Networks. This is an estimate, not a promise.

Get sorted for next time

A torch, a wind-up radio, spare batteries, water and tins you don't need to cook. The full list, and why, is in our UK emergency kit checklist. Or grab the free printable household plan at readyandsorted.co.uk.