Being Prepared
Whilst loss of power is thankfully a rare occurrence, being ready for such an event is something we all need to do. We’ve outlined below some steps you can take now to ensure you are prepared should there be an unexpected interruption to your electricity supply.
Keep our Number Handy
Keep a note of our Power Loss and Emergency numbers near to your telephone:
Vulnerable Customers
If electricity is crucial to your health (for instance, if you use medical equipment at home) ask to be included on our priority service register. You can do this by contacting us on 0845 273 4444 or by emailing us at customer.care@sppowersystems.com
Medical Equipment
Make sure any medical equipment has battery back-up.
Radios
Keep a battery powered radio and fresh batteries in your house, as you may be able to receive updates on the incident.
Lighting
Ensure you have a torch with charged batteries or a wind up dynamo torch. Leave it somewhere you can get to easily. You can also buy battery-powered lights that plug into a power socket and come on automatically during an outage.
Keeping Warm
During cold weather dress warmly using several layers. Also try to keep a warm blanket within easy reach.
Telephones
Many modern telephones won’t work if power is interrupted so please try to keep at least one phone in your house that doesn’t run off of the mains supply. i.e. a traditional analogue telephone or mobile.
Stair Lifts
If you have a mains operated stair lift, check to see if there is a manual release handle that can be used to return the stair lift safely to ground level. Many stair lifts have battery backup. If yours does not, it may be possible to get one fitted.
Vehicles
Keep your vehicle's fuel tank at least half-full because many service stations can't pump fuel during a power failure.
Garage Doors
Know how to use the manual option on electric garage doors and electric gates.
Insulation
Ensure your home is well insulated and free of draughts. This will ensure your home stays warm for a period of time should your supply be interrupted.
Generators
Some customers prepare for the possibility of outages by installing a standby electric generator to keep lights and appliances or life-support devices running until we can restore service. If you have a generator, be sure that it's installed safely. If it's not, you risk damaging your property and endangering the lives of our employees who may be working on power lines some distance from your home.
