Be Winter Ready

UK Power Networks is working with the other Electricity Distribution Networks and our trade body, Energy Networks Association, on a new national campaign called Be Winter Ready.

Be Winter Ready aims to encourage people to prepare in case they experience a power cut or gas emergency this winter.

Background

In recent years the chances of unscheduled problems with electricity and gas supply have dropped dramatically. Since 1990, network companies have invested £80bn in improving the reliability of local energy networks in the UK. As a result, on average, electricity customers have a power cut just once every two years and gas distribution customers will have their gas supply interrupted without advance notice just once every 40 years. Whilst the UK’s gas and electricity supply is very reliable, bad winter weather can cause damage and disruption.

Steps you can take to ‘Be Winter Ready’:

• Know your free emergency numbers: In a power cut dial 105 or, for a gas emergency, dial 0800 111999.

• Prepare your home: Keep a torch handy and get your appliances serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Register as a vulnerable customer: Vulnerable households can get extra support by signing up to the Priority Services Register. Click here to find out more about the Priority Services Register in London, the South and East of England or to sign up.

• Keep your eyes open: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and, if you have a power cut or a gas emergency, check on your neighbours.