Electricity distributor SP Energy Networks has shared power cut safety advice to ensure people stay safe in the event of a power cut.

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for heavy rain and strong winds, which may cause some disruption.

The network operator has been working vigilantly to ensure maximum resilience during extreme weather conditions to help reduce the chance of power cuts.

Craig Arthur, Distribution Director at SP Energy Networks, gives his advice on what people should do in the event of a power cut if flooding occurs as a result of the heavy rainfall and strong winds, as well as his top tips on preparing for an emergency power situation:

“Even though power cuts are rare events for most people, in times of extreme weather they become more likely and it’s important our customers have the knowledge to be best prepared for this.

“We have a team of engineers on hand 24/7 who will come out to your area in the event of any flooding and resultant power outages, but the sooner we know about it the better. You can report any power outages to us by calling the new national emergency helpline 105.”

Craig’s top tips for being prepared in the event of a power cut affecting your home or business are:

• Have the national 105 emergency helpline close to hand – it’s best to keep this on the fridge or saved in the contacts on your mobile phone. If you need to contact us, you have the number there and we can help you as soon as possible.
• Turn off electricity supply – if water is about to enter your property, turn off your electricity supply via your isolator switch or fuse unit, but only if it is safe to do so.
• Once electricity is turned off, avoid touching electrical items – do not touch any electrical appliances, cables or equipment whilst you are standing in flood water. Additionally, do not touch any electrical appliances, cables or equipment that has been immersed in flood water.
• Move electrical objects – in the event of a flood, ensure all electrical objects are moved to a higher level to avoid potential hazards and damage.
• Keep your mobile charged – having your mobile phone charged means that you can give us a call on the national 105 emergency helpline. Alternatively, if your mobile is out of battery or signal, it’s worth having an analogue phone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply.
• Beware of fallen powerlines – power lines may have fallen because of high winds so beware of this when venturing out of your home.
• Join the Priority Services Register – if electricity is crucial to your health (for instance, if you use medical equipment at home), you are over 60, or you have a child aged five or under, ask to be included on SP Energy Networks’ Priority Services Register by calling 0330 1010 167 or text ‘PSR’ to 61999. If your power is off, we can make sure you are supported if you need a little extra help. Visit www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/PSR for more information.

For more information on what to do in the event of a power emergency, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk. In the event of a power cut call the national 105 emergency helpline to report the problem and receive help as soon possible.