Power cuts are rare but can be worrying, especially in winter. To ensure safety during a power cut, UK Power Networks operate the Priority Services Register. It’s completely free and over 700,000 people have already signed for extra help.

UK Power Networks’ research suggests that these are some of the public’s main worries during a power cut:

  • Loss of heating and not being able to make hot food and drink
  • Fear of falling over, not being able to use a bath hoist or stair lift
  • Not having anybody to contact who can help

It was also found that 52% of 80+ year olds worry about when the power will be back on.

UK Power Networks’ customers have told us:

  • “Everything’s electric, there’s no gas. So that means heating and cooking you couldn’t do it. Can’t even make a tea.” (Male, under 40)
  • “I’d be stuck, I couldn’t get upstairs to bed. I’d be really worried…” (Male, under 40)
  • “I’d think of my safety. Make sure the doors and windows are properly closed so nobody comes in and takes advantage of the dark” (male, 80+,)

UK Power Networks’ Priority Services Register has been created to specifically address some of these concerns and ensure safety during a power cut.

What do you receive from the Priority Services Register?

  • A priority telephone number that can be called 24hrs a day
  • A dedicated support team who will contact the person in the event of a power cut
  • Tailored support if needed such as home visits, hot meals, advice and keeping friends and relatives updated
  • In some cases, a free overnight stay in a hotel may be offered

Who is eligible?

  • Those of a pensionable age
  • Those who rely on medical equipment
  • Those who have a disability
  • Those with dementia
  • Those with children under five in their household
  • Those who need extra support for a short time period (e.g. recovering from medical treatment)
  • Other reasons (All will be considered on a case by case basis)

You can sign up to the Priority Services Register here.

What should you do in a power cut?
To help you be prepared for a power cut, we’ve included some helpful suggestions below:

  • If you use any crucial medical equipment that requires electricity, contact UK Power Networks immediately so you can be added to the Priority Services Register.
  • Ensure you have a torch readily available with and adequate supply of batteries.
  • Keep an old style, plug-in telephone in the house as these don’t require electricity. Cordless home phones will only be usable until the battery runs out.
  • Keep important documents safe and readily accessible.
  • Do your best to avoid situations that put you in danger and ensure you have a means to contact the emergency services should you need to.
  • If possible, try and make arrangements to stay with family or friends if you know a power cut will affect you. Of course, this may not be possible for everybody.
  • Be extra careful if you are using candles. An open flame should always be used responsibly. We always recommend a torch with plenty of batteries.
  • Having access to hot water during a power cut is beneficial. Boil as much water as you reasonably can and store it in flasks before the power goes out.
  • Keep usage of laptops and mobile phones to a minimum to preserve the battery life for as long as possible.
  • Keep any important phone numbers (including UK Power Networks) written down on paper and to hand.
  • Watch the useful videos on the UK Power Networks website before a power cut for advice in what to do.
  • Keep fridges and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Place a blanket over them and they will stay cold for hours.
  • Look out for neighbours that may be elderly or in need of help and ensure they’re ready for a power cut.

You can find additional advice for power cuts here and some of our video guides here.