What to do in a power cut: a step-by-step guide

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Quick answerIn a power cut, first check your fuse box and whether neighbours are affected, then call 105 (Great Britain) to report it. Use torches rather than candles, switch off appliances, keep the fridge and freezer closed, listen to a battery or wind-up radio for news, save phone battery, keep warm in one room, and never use barbecues or camping stoves indoors.

The first hour

  1. Check if it is just your home. Look at your fuse box or consumer unit. If a switch has tripped, try resetting it. If neighbours' lights are also off, it is likely a wider power cut.
  2. Call 105 to report it or get updates. In Great Britain, 105 is the free number for power cuts and connects you to your local network operator. Your network operator's website also has a live power cut map.
  3. Light the room safely. Use torches, a lantern or head torch rather than candles. Keep one torch in a known place in every room you use.
  4. Switch off and unplug. Turn off appliances that were on (cookers, irons, heaters) so they do not come back on unattended. Leave one light switched on so you know when power returns.
  5. Keep the fridge and freezer closed. Every opening lets cold air out. A full freezer stays frozen longer than a half-empty one.
  6. Turn on a radio for news. A battery or wind-up FM radio keeps working when mobile data and broadband do not.

The first night and beyond

  1. Save your phone battery. Turn on low-power mode, lower the brightness and use a power bank. Text rather than call where you can.
  2. Keep warm in one room. Close internal doors, draw curtains, layer clothes and blankets, and use a hot water bottle if you can boil water safely.
  3. Never use outdoor heaters or cookers indoors. Barbecues, camping stoves, patio heaters and generators produce carbon monoxide and must only be used outdoors.
  4. Check on others. Look in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Anyone who relies on medical equipment should contact their network operator on 105.

Frequently asked questions

What number do I call in a power cut?

In Great Britain call 105, the free national power cut number. It puts you through to your local electricity network operator. If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. In an emergency call 999.

How long does food last in the fridge during a power cut?

Keep the doors shut and food will stay cold for several hours; a full freezer keeps food frozen for longer than a half-empty one. If in doubt about chilled food that has warmed up, throw it out.

Should I unplug everything in a power cut?

Switch off or unplug appliances that were in use, especially cookers, irons and heaters, and sensitive electronics. Leave one light on so you notice when power is back.

Who gets priority in a power cut?

Households on the Priority Services Register, such as people who rely on medical equipment, older people and families with children under 5, can get extra support. Check eligibility at thepsr.co.uk.

Updated 2026-10-28. Sources: Priority Services Register; UK Government Be Ready checklist.