As the nights get colder and darker, the chances of severe weather increase. Since 1990, gas and electricity network companies have invested over £80bn to make the UK’s gas and electricity supply more reliable than ever before. But storms, floods and other extreme weather can still cause damage and disruption.
That’s why the UK’s gas and electricity network companies have come together to launch the Be Winter Ready campaign. The campaign aims to help the public better-prepare for power cuts and gas emergencies that may result from bad winter weather.
To Be Winter Ready, you should:
- Know your free emergency numbers – in a power cut dial 105 or, for a gas emergency, dial 0800 111999.
- Prepare your home – keep a torch handy and get your appliances serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Vulnerable households can get extra support by signing up to the Priority Services Register. Contact your gas or electricity network to find out more. Visit www.energynetworks.org to find out who your network operator is.
- Keep your eyes open – keep an eye on the weather forecast and, if you have a power cut or a gas emergency, check on your neighbours.