Most gas and electric central heating stops working when the power goes off, so homes can cool down quickly in winter. These simple steps help you stay warm until the electricity comes back.

Pick one room and keep the heat in

Choose a small room, ideally one that gets some sun, and spend most of your time there. Close the doors and curtains, and put a rolled-up towel along the bottom of the door to stop draughts.

Wear layers

Several thin layers trap more heat than one thick jumper. Add a hat, warm socks and thermal gloves, because you lose a lot of heat from your head, hands and feet.

Use hand warmers

Air-activated hand warmers heat up on their own once opened and last for hours, with no batteries or electricity. Pop them in pockets, gloves or under a blanket.

Keep hot drinks ready

When a storm is forecast, boil the kettle and fill a flask. A hot drink or soup helps warm you from the inside.

Stay safe

• Never use a gas cooker, barbecue or camping stove indoors to heat a room. They can produce deadly carbon monoxide.
• Check on elderly neighbours and anyone vulnerable.
• Call 105 free to report a power cut or get updates.

For more ideas, read our power cut checklist.