What to do in a power cut.

The first 5 minutes

1. Check if it's just your homeLook outside. If neighbours and street lights have power, check your fuse box for a tripped switch.
2. Turn off appliancesSwitch off cookers, heaters and irons so they don't come back on unattended. Leave one light switched on so you know when power returns.
3. Get your torch, not candlesTorches are safer. If you must use candles, never leave them unattended.
4. Turn on your radioA battery or wind-up radio keeps you updated if mobile signal and the internet go down too.

Who to call

Call 105 from most landlines and mobiles in England, Scotland and Wales to report a power cut or get updates. It's free and puts you through to your local network operator, not the company you pay your bill to.

In Northern Ireland, call NIE Networks on 03457 643 643.

If you or someone at home relies on medical equipment, is elderly or has young children, ask your network operator about the Priority Services Register. It's free, and people on it can get extra help during power cuts.

Keeping food safe

• Keep the fridge and freezer doors shut. A closed fridge keeps food cold for about 4 hours.
• A full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours, a half-full one for about 24 hours.
• In a part-full freezer, push packages together and put them on a tray to catch drips.
• Eat from your no-cook supplies first, so you open the fridge as little as possible.

Staying warm and safe

• Gather everyone in one room. Close curtains and doors to hold the heat.
• Wear layers, use blankets or foil blankets, and keep hats and socks on.
• Check on neighbours who live alone, especially older people.

Be ready next time

The government's Be Ready advice asks every household to have enough at home to cope for 3 days: water, no-cook food, a torch, a radio, a charged power bank, first aid and warmth.

Use the free checklist to see what you already have.

Sources: 105 power cut line · NIE Networks: keeping food safe · GOV.UK Be Ready. BeReady2Day is an independent business, not part of the government or your network operator.