What to do in a power cut
DRAFT: This guide is waiting for review. Figures and wording may change before launch.
The short answer
In a power cut, first check whether it is just your home or the whole street. Then call 105 in England, Scotland or Wales, or 03457 643643 in Northern Ireland, to report it and get updates. Use torches rather than candles, keep the fridge and freezer shut, wrap up warm and check on neighbours who may need help. Never use a barbecue, camping stove or generator indoors.
What you need
Step by step in a power cut
- Check if it is just you. Look outside. Are street lights or neighbours’ lights off too?
- Check your fuse box. If only your home is dark, a trip switch may have flipped. If it keeps tripping, ask an electrician to look at it.
- Report it and get updates. Call 105 in England, Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland, call 03457 643643.
- Use a torch. Be Ready says torches are safer than candles.
- Switch things off. Turn off cookers, heaters, irons and hair straighteners. They could be unsafe when the power comes back. Leave one light switched on so you know when it returns.
- Keep the fridge and freezer shut. This keeps food cold for longer.
- Keep warm. Put on layers, close curtains and stay in one room.
- Check on neighbours, especially older people or anyone living alone.
The 105 number connects you to your local distribution network operator (DNO). That is the company that runs the power lines, not the company that sends your bill. Our area page shows who runs the network where you live.
Phones and news
- Keep important numbers on paper. Your phone may run out of charge.
- Some landlines now work through the broadband router. These may stop working when the power is off.
- Save phone battery. Turn the screen brightness down and close apps you do not need.
- Use a battery or wind-up FM radio for local news.
If someone relies on power for health
If anyone in your home uses medical equipment that needs electricity, plan ahead with the equipment supplier. Ask what to do if the power goes off and how long any backup battery lasts.
You can also join the Priority Services Register (PSR). It tells your energy companies that your household needs extra help in a power cut. Read our guide to the Priority Services Register.
What you probably already own
You can handle most power cuts with things you already have:
- Torches and spare batteries. Keep one where you can find it in the dark.
- Warm layers. Jumpers, hats, socks, blankets and sleeping bags.
- Hot water bottles. Fill them while you still have hot water, or use a flask.
- A power bank. Keep it charged.
- Food that needs no cooking. Bread, cereal, tins you can eat cold, nuts and fruit.
- Water. Some homes lose water pressure in a long power cut. Stored tap water helps.
- A paper list of key numbers, including 105.
Write a simple plan for your household. Our plan tool helps you do this in a few minutes.
Write down contacts, meeting points and medicines, then print a plan and a wallet card.
What to buy, if anything
You may not need anything new. If you want to fill a gap, the most useful items are:
- A power bank to keep a phone working. See our guide to power banks for power cuts.
- A lantern or bright torch that can light a whole room. See our guide to torches and lanterns.
- A battery or wind-up FM radio. See our guide to wind-up radios.
- A carbon monoxide alarm, if you do not already have one. Choose one that runs on batteries.
Find the power cut and other useful numbers for where you live.
Flood and weather warnings near you, your power network and water company.
Free tools and kit picks for this guide
Write down contacts, meeting points and medicines, then print a plan and a wallet card.
Flood and weather warnings near you, your power network and water company.
Common questions
Is 105 free to call?
Yes. 105 is a free number in England, Scotland and Wales. It puts you through to the company that runs the power lines in your area.
Who do I call in Northern Ireland?
Call NIE Networks on 03457 643643 to report a power cut or get updates.
Should I use candles in a power cut?
Be Ready says torches are safer than candles. Use a torch or a battery lantern instead.
Local numbers
- Power cut in England, Scotland or Wales: call 105. It is free and connects you to your local network.
- Power cut in Northern Ireland: call NIE Networks on 03457 643643.
- Flood warnings in England, Wales or Scotland: call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
- Flooding in Northern Ireland: call the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.
- Urgent medical help that is not an emergency: call NHS 111.
- If someone is in danger: call 999.
Find the power network, water company and live warnings for your postcode.