Tips to help during a power cut
Our useful tips will help you to during a power cut.
Being in a power cut can be disorientating, so follow our useful tips below during a power cut to help keep you safe and comfortable until the power comes back on.
Let people know
Notify family members, friends and neighbours, so they know you've not got any power and you may need support,
Lights and electrical appliances
Switch off all electrical appliances that are not designed to run unattended, for example: cookers, grills, chip pans, hair straighteners and electric fires. Leave at least one light on so you know when your electricity is back on.
Electrical devices
Reduce battery usage by limiting their use for emergencies only. It’s also worth considering turning screen brightness down, closing unused apps, selecting power saving mode, keeping the phone warm which uses less battery. If possible you can charge devices in your car.
Keep warm
If it’s cold, dress warmly by adding layers, including blankets, hats and gloves and try to stay active to stimulate circulation and keep yourself warm. Close doors to unused rooms and draw curtains to retain heat.
Fridge freezer
Fridges and freezers can stay cold for a long time depending on their age, how fresh the food is, if the doors are kept closed, and how full they are. Fridges: Stay cold for at least four hours. To keep them cold longer, add ice and pack food tightly in the drawers. Freezers: Stay cold for 24-48 hours. Avoid opening the door to maintain the temperature.
Stair lift
Check your stair lift has a handle that will allow you to manually move the stair lift, so that you can safely return the stair lift to ground level in the event of a power cut. Most stair lifts have a battery backup.
Caring for tropical pets
Unplug tank filters and wrap the tank with a blanket or foil. If oxygen is needed, use a small cup to pour tank water back in or stir the water in a figure-eight pattern every hour with a hand pump. For pets like bearded dragons, a battery-powered lamp can help maintain the temperature.
Solar panels
Your solar panels will stop working during a power cut for safety reasons. After the power is restored, check your user manual for specific instructions. Most solar panels will start working automatically without needing any updates or actions.
What you should check when your electricity comes back on
Electronic clocks
Update any clocks, alarms, and timers that may have been affected.
Thermostat
Check your timer to make sure it is correct. Reset the timer and thermostat as soon as your electricity comes back on.