Loss of essential services

If you are a vulnerable customer in need of extra support, you can register with your provider as a priority customer.

Loss of supply can happen without warning, so it is always useful to have an emergency pack containing items such as torches, bottled water and wind up/battery radio.

Consider purchasing a fixed telephone. Many landline telephones with mobile handsets require electricity and will not work in a power cut.

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If the power goes off, call Freephone 105 to report it or get information.

If you smell gas and/or think there could be a leak, you should immediately phone the National Gas Emergency Service number on 0800 111 999 at any time of the day or night.

If there is a power cut, take care if you use candles – place them on a proper holder and do not leave them in a draught or in front of curtains.

Visit elderly neighbours or family to make sure they are coping – encourage them to stay warm with extra layers and blankets.

Do not open fridge and freezers for any longer than necessary. They can stay cold for many hours if left closed.

Be careful using generators, as they can produce carbon monoxide.

You may need to reprogramme many of your electronic devices.

Follow advice from the water company.

If you are a vulnerable customer in need of extra support you can register with your water company as a priority customer.

Make sure you know the emergency supply number for your water company.

If you identify an issue with the water supply, alert your water company.

Keep bottled water available.

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Check your water supplier’s website for information and updates.

Follow the instructions of the emergency services and your local authority.

Make yourself known to your local authority if you are vulnerable or have additional needs for water.

Follow advice from the water company.

Consider having several means of contact (intranet, telephone and mobile phone).

Have an emergency supply of cash available as you may not be able to withdraw money from ATMs.

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Check on neighbours who may be vulnerable.

Check your bank account to ensure you can access your funds.

Contact your bank if you experience any problems or uncover any issues.

Maintain your vehicle to make it as fuel efficient as possible.

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Plan ahead - Do not make unnecessary journeys.

Do not panic buy - fuel shortages are caused when people buy fuel they do not need.

Do not use plastic 'jerry cans' or other unapproved storage devices. These can be extremely dangerous.

Consider other means of travelling, such as car sharing, walking, or cycling.

Check on vulnerable neighbours who may not be receiving their normal support.

Be aware that filling stations may operate differently to usual, for example there may be limits on which stations you can use and how much fuel you can purchase.

Be aware that the return to normal supply will be staggered. Some filling stations will take longer to restock than others, particularly in rural locations.