National Grid 'prepared' plan as households told they need six items

National Grid 'prepared' plan as households told they need six items National Grid has shared its winter plan and is advising households to stock up on six essential items National Grid has revealed it has a series of measures in place for the winter period "to ensure we're fully prepared for any impact on our electricity network". The electric power transmission network is also urging households to stock up on six essential items in the event of a power cut. On its website, National Grid explains: "We have additional operational and engineering staff ready and on stand-by, as well as extra Contact and Control Centre operatives available to manage the electricity network and to help customers with their enquiries. "Our high tech systems and dedicated staff are prepared so that, whatever the weather, we can endeavour to restore power supplies quickly if they are disrupted." People can sign up to receive email updates regarding power outages here. In its guidance on preparing for power cuts, National Grid recommends households stock up on the following: - A torch - Batteries - A wind-up, battery, or solar radio - A power bank or solar charger - A surge protector (to guard electric devices from sudden voltage changes) - Back-up batteries for any electric medical equipment It's also worth speaking to neighbours about their contingency plans should a power cut strike, and checking whether between you there is a means of cooking and access to hot water, using gas appliances and so on. Swapping telephone numbers in case they are needed could also prove invaluable. Ensure any vulnerable neighbours have adequate supplies and a way of getting in touch with friends or family in an emergency. If you, a family member, or a neighbour relies on electricity for medical equipment or communications, and would be at risk during a power cut, you or they can register with National Grid's Priority Services Register here. If your power goes off, your first step should be to establish whether it's a full power cut or simply a blown fuse. Have a word with your neighbours, or during the night, take a look at the street lights to quickly determine whether it's a widespread power cut. Keep your freezer shut. The majority of power cuts are brief, and your freezer will keep its contents safe for up to 12 hours. Switch off or unplug any costly or sensitive electrical appliances - electrical surges that occur during power cuts can cause serious damage to digital devices, including phones, TVs, laptops and tablets, so switch them off or disconnect them from the mains to protect them. Check in on your neighbours, particularly those who are elderly, seriously ill, or disabled. Make sure they are warm, have sufficient food, drink, and medication, and that any necessary medical equipment remains operational.