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Power cuts

 
Power cuts can happen for a variety of reasons, including severe storms.

To be prepared for a power failure, keep a small emergency pack and know where to find it - even in the dark. It should include:

  • a torch (with batteries)
  • radio (with batteries) as local stations will broadcast useful information.
  • candles and matches (watch out for the fire risks if you have to use the candles)

Fridges and freezers

Keep fridges and freezers closed as they will normally stay cold for a number of hours.

Phones

Some modern phones (e.g. cordless phones) will not work in a power cut. It may be worth keeping an ordinary phone or having a mobile phone available.

Stair lifts

If you have a stair lift that is mains operated, it will stop wherever it is during a power cut unless it has a rechargeable or back-up battery supply. Check to see if there is a manual release handle that can be used to return the lift safely to the ground floor if it stops between floors.

Mains supply

You may need to switch off supplies at the mains - if you don't know how to, check with gas, electricity and water authorities now.

Injuries 

If anyone is seriously injured, dial 999 and give the operator your number so that you can be traced if the line is cut.

You may be able to deal with minor injuries yourself if you have some knowledge of first aid.

Priority services

If you would have particular problems in a power cut, you can register on the EDF Energy Priority Services Register. It is open to anyone who is:

  • dependant on medical equipment
  • chronically sick
  • disabled
  • believes that they have a special case.
You can contact them by:

Telephone: 0800 269450
Text Phone: 0800 0962929

Or by post:

Customer Relations
EDF Energy
Fore Hamlet
Ipswich IP3 8AA.

Find out more about the Priority Services Register on the EDF Energy website.

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