Emergency Planning

Power outages can be disruptive as many of our daily activities rely on electricity. In the event of a power outage, the service provider is responsible for restoring the network.

In the event of a power outage or blackout, you should contact your service provider or local power company. Service providers have a variety of alerts for network disruptions.

Who should I contact?

In the event of a power cut, you can call 105. This is a free service that will connect you with your local electricity operator. 

Customers can call 105 no matter who they choose to buy electricity from.

You can also call 105 if you discover damage to power lines that could endanger someone. You should also call 999 for emergency services if there is serious and imminent danger.

What should I do in the event of a power cut?

• Turn off all appliances to avoid damage from power surges.
• Check with neighbours to ensure the power outage isn’t contained to only your home. If it is common to several properties, notify your local electrical supplier if possible.
• Try to avoid opening your fridge/freezer. A sealed freezer may keep food frozen for up to 24 hours if left unopened.
• Candles are not advised due to fire risk - seek out safer battery-powered alternatives.
• Check on vulnerable neighbours and make sure they are okay and have sufficient supplies/resources to cope.

How can I stay prepared?

• Keep bottled water in case your water supply is disrupted.
• Keep a torch in an easily accessible location.
• Keep emergency contact numbers for friends, family and your service providers at hand.
• Perhaps invest in an older phone which just plugs straight into the phone line.
• If your heating is electricity powered, ensure you have arrangements for back up battery powered heating devices and extra blankets.

What does the Council do?

While the Council will not get involved in the majority of short-duration outages, major incidents which affect a large number of properties, affect more than one utility or where the duration of the outage is prolonged, will result in the involvement of the Council and other partners.