Power cut

Make a plan and get emergency supplies

Create a household emergency plan and prepare a grab-bag of essential supplies.

Make sure you have:

• Torches, including batteries - especially useful if a power cut happens in the evening or at night
• A battery-powered radio to listen to public service announcements

Let services know you need extra support

If you or a family member are vulnerable, check if you are eligible to sign up to your gas or electricity providers' Priority Services Register.

Signing up to a Priority Service Register (PSR) lets your supplier know that you need extra support. It will help them identify customers that have extra communication, access, or safety needs during a power cut.

Contact your supplier or check if you are eligible on the Priority Services Register website.

Get your boiler serviced

Get your heating system serviced every year to keep it working safely and efficiently. If you have gas heating, make sure it is serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Use Norfolk Trusted Trader for find boiler engineers

Find or check an engineer on the gas safe register

Prepare a back-up heating source

If you lose electricity for a long period of time, having an alternative way to heat one or two rooms can make the situation easier.

Make sure you follow safety advice for using portable heaters from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.

Understand the issue

Check your trip switch - UK Power Networks explains what trip switches are and where to find them.

Talk to your neighbours to see if they have also lost power. Knowing if others are affected will help you know what to do next.

Report the power cut

If you're able to access the internet, you can track and report a power cut on the UK Power Networks website.

If you don't have internet access, call 105 to report the power cut or get information. It's free to call, and you'll be connected to your local electricity network operator.

Take care when using candles

Always place candles in a proper holder, and do not leave them in a draught or or in front of curtain.

Keep candles out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Follow advice on candle safety from the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.

Check on vulnerable members of your community

Visit neighbours and family members who are elderly or disabled to make sure they are ok. Encourage them to stay warm with extra layers and blankets.

Using generators

Be careful if you use a generator - they can produce carbon monoxide.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and never use a generator indoors or in an enclosed space.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service explains the dangers of carbon monoxide and the warning signs to look out for.