UK Power Networks, responsible for maintaining the electricity network across the UK, have issued the following advice to residents in advance of the arrival of Storm Eleanor tonight.  They say:

“You will be able to find regular updates on our website www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk and social media @UKPowerNetworks throughout this period.

Anyone experiencing a power cut should:

• Call 105 to report power cuts and damage to the electricity network, or 0800 3163 105 (from a corded phone or mobile phone if you have no power)
• Visit ukpowernetworks.co.uk for the latest updates
• Visit ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercut and type in their postcode to view our live power cut map
• Tweet @ukpowernetworks to report a power cut or to receive updates.

We advise people to stay clear of power lines and report damaged power lines immediately by calling 105 free from both a landline or a mobile phone. If they see electricity lines that are down or causing significant risk to the public they should call 999.

We provide extra help to customers on our Priority Service Register during a power cut.  Households with older or disabled people, those with children under five, or where someone uses medical or mobility equipment that requires electricity as well as other reasons can join the register.  You can find out more information about our Priority Service on our website: ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priority.

If you would like to share information about preparing for the storm or the priority service register on social media you might like to use the following:

@UKPowerNetworks has extra staff on hand 24/7 to deal with the impact of #stormEleanor

Call 105 to report a power cut and visit www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercut for the latest updates

Do you, or someone you know, need extra support during a power cut? @UKPowerNetworks provides free services to vulnerable customers. Visit ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priority for more information #stormEleanor

Preparing for a power cut

Below is some additional advice:

• Add 105 to the contacts on your mobile phone
• Keep our Freephone 0800 3163 105 number handy
• See www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/powercuts for useful videos and advice during a power cut.
• Locate a torch, check it’s working and make sure you have spare batteries. Take care if using candles.
• Charge up your mobile phone, and a rechargeable mobile ‘powerbank’ if you have one.
• Use a phone with a cord if you have one, cordless phones don’t work in a power cut.
• Keep fridges and freezers closed, with a blanket over as they will stay cold for many hours.
• Switch off all your electrical equipment, except one light which will let you know when the power comes back on.

Remember the street lights may also be off so take care if you go out

• Dress in warm clothes
• Look out for vulnerable neighbours.”