# 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.

- Canonical URL: https://powercutkit.co.uk/faq/
- Source: [Ofgem, check if you can get a payment for a power cut](https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/check-if-you-can-get-payment-power-cut)
- Checked: 2026-10-25

## 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](https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/check-if-you-can-get-payment-power-cut)). In Northern Ireland, call 03457 643643 ([Be Ready](https://beready.campaign.gov.uk/be-ready-for-emergencies/)). 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](https://www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/storms-and-power-cuts/power-cuts/)).

**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](https://www.foodstandards.gov.scot/consumers/food-safety/at-home/power-cuts)).

**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](https://beready.campaign.gov.uk/be-ready-for-emergencies/)).

**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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Power Cut Kit · Contact: contact@powercutkit.co.uk