Loss of utilities

Gas, electricity and water are a fundamental part of our life which we all rely upon. Although our national and local infrastructure is robust, these essential services can be lost because of contamination, deliberate attack or industrial action. The key risks are:

  • localised or temporary loss of electricity, gas or water (including sewerage) services
  • widespread electrical power outage

How you could be affected

A loss of utilities incident could:

  • bring disruption to domestic and business supplies and could also affect:
    • telecommunications
    • banking services (ATMs and card payments)
    • fuel stations
    • other utilities supplies
  • impact a wider range of facilities, including:
    • traffic control
    • mobile and internet (regardless of whether a local power supply is available)
    • the emergency and health services ability to respond and maintain services

What you should do

Be prepared:

  • Vulnerable customers in need of extra support can register with their provider as a priority customer
  • It is useful to have an emergency kit with essential supplies

During the incident:

  • Report power loss by calling Freephone 105
  • If you smell gas, you should immediately call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999
  • Use a battery or wind-up torch where possible - candles shouldn't be used during a gas leak
  • Ensure your family and neighbours are well
  • Keep fridge and freezers closed, so that your supplies stay cold for longer
  • Be careful if using generators or outdoor heaters inside as they can produce carbon monoxide

In the event of widespread electrical power outage:

  • Avoid taking unnecessary risks and where possible, remain home. If possible, dial into BBC Radio 2 and Radio 4 which will remain functional in FM mode (not DAB radio)
  • Emergency services may not be able to respond in the normal manner during a power loss incident – visit emergency services, health or council locations for assistance

After the incident:

  • Visit elderly or vulnerable neighbours to check they are well
  • You may need to reprogramme your devices
  • There may be a graduated or sporadic return to normal, so prioritise your personal recovery and listen for updates

Be prepared:

  • Report an issue and/or follow advice from your water company:
  • Vulnerable customers in need of extra support can register with their water company as a priority customer
  • Keep a supply of bottled water

During the incident:

  • Visit the website of your water supplier for information and updates
  • Follow the instructions of the emergency services and your local authority

After the incident:

  • Follow the advice from your water supplier on next steps and getting your supply back to normal

Be prepared:

  • Make sure you have several means of contact (internet, telephone and mobile phone)
  • Keep some cash to hand in the case of not being able to withdraw money from ATMs

During the incident:

  • Ensure your family and neighbours are well

After the incident:

  • Make sure you can access your funds and contact your bank if you experience any problems
  • Check your connectivity and contact your personal mobile, telephone or broadband providers if you uncover any issues

Be prepared:

  • Maintain your vehicle's engine, tyre pressure and follow fuel-saving driving habits
  • Stay informed by following national and local guidance on fuel supply disruptions
  • Businesses can develop a plan to minimise fuel shortage disruptions by reducing services, allowing working from home and prioritising essential journeys

During the incident:

  • Avoid non-essential travel
  • Do not panic buy fuel you do not need
  • Do not use inappropriate storage containers
  • Consider car sharing, walking or cycling
  • Check on vulnerable neighbours
  • Check which stations you can use and how much fuel you can purchase

After the incident:

  • Return to normal supply might differ depending on location - restocking in rural locations might take longer than urban areas
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