Getting your home ready for winter power cuts

Autumn and winter bring more storms, and storms can bring power cuts. You don't need to buy anything new to be ready. Here are five calm things to check at home this season, based on official UK advice.

Save the power cut number

If the power goes off, you can call 105 for free in England, Scotland and Wales to report it or get updates. Save it in your phone now and write it on paper too, in case your phone runs low. In Northern Ireland, check NI Direct for the number to call.

Find your torch and check the batteries

Official advice is to use torches or battery lanterns, not candles. Find yours, check the batteries work, and keep them somewhere everyone knows, such as a kitchen drawer.

Keep a power bank charged

A charged power bank lets you top up a mobile so you can call for help and get updates. Charge it now and put it back with your kit. If you'd want to keep something going that plugs into the wall, our guide to backup power for power cuts explains the options.

Check how your heating and phone work

Most gas boilers need electricity, so they usually stop in a power cut. Our guide on whether a gas boiler works in a power cut explains why, and how to keep warm.

If your landline now plugs into your broadband router, it may not work in a power cut. Ofcom says to talk to your phone provider if you rely on your landline, especially for a telecare alarm.

Join the Priority Services Register if it fits

The Priority Services Register is free. It tells your network operator your household may need extra help in a power cut, for example if someone relies on medical equipment, is older, or has a young baby.

Make a plan in a few minutes

Our free household power cut plan asks who lives with you and how your home is heated, then gives you a one-page plan to print and keep on the fridge. For a printable list, see the power cut checklist.

A little preparation makes the wait for the power to come back easier. If anyone is in danger, call 999.