SP Energy Networks has issued advice to help customers be prepared in case of power cuts caused by damaging winds and heavy rain associated with Storm Amy.

The Met Office has issued yellow and amber weather warnings to parts of the country on Friday 3rd October that will last through until the early hours of Saturday 4th October. This means there is the possibility of power cuts as well as travel delays, road and rail closures, and the potential risk to life and property.

SP Energy Networks works 24/7 to keep the lights on and invests billions to ensure its network is safe, reliable and resilient all year round. It also undertakes significant planning and preparation for extreme weather to help reduce the chance of power cuts and ensure teams of engineers are ready to respond to any issues as quickly as possible.

Aileen Rourke, SP Energy Networks Scotland Distribution Director: “When extreme weather hits, the potential for damage to our power lines increases, which means power cuts can become more likely.

“We’re currently mobilising teams of engineers to the areas where we expect the weather to have the most impact so we can respond as quickly as possible. However, please remember our teams have to battle the elements too and weather damage can affect how easily we can access the affected areas.

“It’s important our customers are also fully prepared and know what to do, just in case the lights go out. The first thing to do if you lose power is to let us know right away so we can get to work quickly to restore your power. If you experience a power outage, report it to us by calling the free, national emergency helpline 105 – please don’t assume we know about it.

“Our teams are on hand 24/7 to minimise the impact of extreme weather on our network and our customers.”

SP Energy Networks’ top tips for being prepared are:

• Have the national 105 emergency helpline on hand –it’s best to keep this on the fridge or saved in the contacts on your mobile phone.
• Store a battery or wind-up torch – leave this somewhere you can access easily so you can use the torch to check on the fuse box and make your way around the house safely.
• Beware of fallen power lines –power lines may have fallen because of heavy snow so beware of this when venturing out of your home. Do not approach, and call 105 to report a fallen power line
• Keep your mobile charged– having your mobile phone charged means you can call the national 105 emergency helpline. It’s also worth having an analogue phone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply.
• Keep the heat in – if your power does go out, your heating might not work so keep extra blankets nearby and close window shutters, blinds or curtains to help keep the heat in.
• Join the free Priority Services Register –if electricity is crucial to your health (for instance, if you use medical equipment at home), if you have a child aged five or under, or if you just feel you need a little extra help, ask to be included on SP Energy Networks’ Priority Services Register by calling 0330 1010 167 or text PSR to 61999.

For more information on what to do in the event of a power emergency, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk.