Power cut questions and answers
Short answers on UK power cuts: who to call, whether you get paid, how long food lasts, what goes in a three-day kit and how to stay safe without electricity.
During the cut
Who do I call? In England, Scotland and Wales, 105, free from any phone; it connects you to your local electricity network operator (Ofgem). In Northern Ireland, call 03457 643643 (Be Ready). Your supplier cannot fix network faults.
How do I know it is not my own wiring? If a switch in your fuse box has tripped, the fault is inside your home. If nothing has tripped and neighbours are dark too, it is the network.
Can I use candles? Torches are safer. If you must use candles, keep them away from curtains, children and pets and put them out when you leave the room (Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue).
Can I cook on a camping stove indoors? No. Camping stoves, barbecues and generators produce carbon monoxide and must never be used indoors or in a garage.
Food and money
Is the food in my fridge safe? For up to about four hours if the door stays shut. A full freezer keeps food frozen for about 48 hours, a half-full one about 24 (Food Standards Scotland).
Will I be paid? In normal weather, £100 once a cut passes 12 hours (24 hours if 5,000 or more homes are affected), plus £45 for each further 12 hours. Payment is usually automatic.
What about storms? £90 after 24 hours (category 1) or 48 hours (category 2), then £45 every 6 hours, up to £2,235.
Being ready
What should a home emergency kit contain? Enough for three days: 3 litres of water per person per day, food that needs no fridge or cooking, a torch, a battery or wind-up FM radio, a power bank, cash, copies of documents, first aid and medicines, and supplies for babies and pets (gov.uk).
I rely on medical equipment. What should I do? Join the free Priority Services Register with your supplier and network operator, and tell 105 in a cut.
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