How to cope in a power cut

Here are some useful tips for preparing for and coping in a power cut.

• Keep a torch with fresh batteries in a place where you can reach it easily.
• Turn off your electrical appliances and lights, but leave one light switched on so you know when the power is back on.
• Be careful if you use other forms of heating and lighting, such as paraffin heaters and candles.
• Remember that the doorbell will probably not work (unless it runs on batteries), nor will an alarm system (unless it has a battery back-up).
• If we have warned you that the electricity will be turned off, boil some water and keep it in a thermos flask. You can use it to make hot drinks or fill a hot water bottle if it gets too cold.
• When your supply is back on, you may need to reset electric timers, alarm clocks and so on.
• Food in the freezer should keep for about eight hours without power. Do not open the freezer doors unless you have to. Check the food when the power is back on to make sure it has not thawed. If it has, do not refreeze it. You may be able to claim on your household contents insurance for any lost food. Check your policy to make sure.

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