A power cut can happen at any time, especially during winter storms. Having a few simple things ready at home means you can stay safe, warm and informed until the electricity comes back. Here is our checklist of what every UK home should have.
1. A good torch (or two)
Phone torches drain your battery fast, and you will want your phone for calls and updates. Keep a proper torch somewhere everyone knows, like a kitchen drawer.
- A bright rechargeable searchlight lights up a whole room, garden or driveway.
- Head torches keep both hands free for cooking, checking the fuse box or looking after children.
- Avoid candles where you can. They are a fire risk, especially around children and pets.
2. A wind-up or solar radio
When the power and Wi-Fi are down, a battery-free radio lets you hear local news and weather updates. A wind-up emergency radio charges by hand crank or solar, and many can also top up your phone by USB. The Daykit hand crank radio adds a power bank and SOS alarm.
3. A way to charge your phone
Keep a power bank charged, or choose a radio with a built-in phone charger. In the UK you can call 105 free from any phone to report a power cut or get updates from your local network operator.
4. Ways to stay warm
Most central heating stops working in a power cut, so the house cools quickly.
- Wear layers, and keep blankets and warm gloves to hand.
- Air-activated hand warmers give hours of heat with no batteries or electricity.
- Close doors and curtains to keep warmth in one room.
5. Hot drinks without a kettle
When a storm is forecast, boil the kettle and fill a stainless steel flask. You will still have a hot drink or soup when the power goes off.
6. A first aid kit
Small accidents are more likely in the dark. Keep a first aid kit with your torch so you can find both quickly.
Quick checklist
- Torch and spare head torch
- Wind-up or solar radio
- Charged power bank
- Blankets, gloves and hand warmers
- Flask for hot drinks
- First aid kit
- Bottled water and food that needs no cooking
- 105 saved in your phone contacts (the free UK power cut helpline)
Everything above is available in our shop, with UK delivery and free delivery on orders over £30.
