Lost Power? How to Report a Power Cut and Stay Safe in the UK?
Whether you're cooking dinner or winding down with your favourite show, a blackout can strike at the worst possible moment. The sudden loss of power is more than just an inconvenience; it can disrupt your entire evening. That's why it's essential to know how to report a power outage quickly and safely.
This guide explains how to report a power cut in the UK, what to do during an outage, and how to prepare for future blackouts. Along the way, we'll share practical tools, including backup energy solutions, so you're never left completely in the dark.
How to Report a Power Outage in the UK?
In the UK, the responsibility for electricity supply lies with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), not with your energy supplier. When the power goes out, it's not your electricity provider who can fix the issue—it's your local DNO. There are two primary ways to report power outages in the UK: online or by phone. Here are some tips to help you get in touch.
Report online
The fastest and most convenient way to report power outage incidents is online. The UK's national platform for reporting power cuts is www.powercut105.com. This site allows you to input your postcode, after which it redirects you to your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Online reporting is accessible 24/7 and includes live outage updates, estimated resolution times, and information about affected areas.
Many DNOs provide a detailed online form to report issues. For instance, National Grid (mainly for the Midlands, South West, and Wales) offers an intuitive online service. You simply click "Report a Power Cut Online" and follow a seven-step process:
Describe the damage
Enter the location
Provide issue details
Add contact information
Specify the affected property
Submit the report
Once submitted, you'll receive a reference number and, in some cases, an SMS update service for ongoing status notifications.
Several DNOs also have dedicated mobile apps with outage maps, status tracking, and real-time notifications. These digital tools are particularly useful when phone lines are congested during widespread outages.
Report by phone
If internet access is unavailable, you can report a power outage by calling the free national helpline: 105. This number connects you directly to your area's DNO, who will log the issue and begin an investigation. It is free to call from landlines and mobiles, and operates across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Alternatively, the number 0800 6783 105 also reaches the same service and can be used as a backup.
If neither 105 nor 0800 numbers work, due to network congestion, SIM issues, or damaged phone lines, you can call your DNO directly. Each DNO maintains 24/7 emergency lines, such as:
UK Power Networks: 0800 3163 105
Electricity North West: 0800 195 4141
Northern Powergrid: No a dedicated emergency number, but you can contact them via WhatsApp or text relay at 0900 668 877, or use Minicom/textphone at 088 028 9507
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN): No direct DNO-specific emergency number, but you can send a Facebook message or WhatsApp via its official website.
When calling, be prepared to provide:
Your postcode or full address
Description of the issue (complete outage, flickering, voltage irregularities)
Any visible damage or danger
Your contact details for updates
Phone reporting is essential in emergencies, especially when there's immediate danger to life or property, such as fallen lines or sparks.
What to Do in a Power Cut?
Reporting the outage is only half the story. While waiting for power to be restored, you'll want to stay safe, keep essential items running, and prevent unnecessary losses. If you're looking for tips for managing power cut in UK , these practical steps will help keep you comfortable and safe.
1. Stay Calm and Check the Basics
The first step is to confirm whether the problem is inside your home or part of a wider outage. Inspect your fuse box or consumer unit. If all looks normal, glance outside. If neighbouring houses are dark too, the issue likely lies with your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
It's also worth checking whether your prepayment meter (if you have one) has credit. A flat meter can sometimes look like a power cut but only affects your property.
2. Preserve Food and Essentials
Refrigerators and freezers are a common concern. According to the Food Standards Agency, a full freezer can keep food safe for up to 48 hours if left unopened. A half-full freezer stays cold for around 24 hours. To extend this window, keep doors closed as much as possible. Consider grouping frozen items together, as this helps them stay colder for longer.
If the outage looks like it may last several hours, think ahead: move a small supply of perishable food to a cooler with ice packs to avoid spoilage when you need to open the fridge.
3. Stay Safe Around Power
Never approach fallen or damaged power lines. Stay at least 10 metres away and alert your DNO immediately by calling 105. Indoors, avoid using candles, which increases fire risk. Instead, keep torches, battery lanterns, or even LED headlamps handy. These are safer, longer lasting, and provide hands-free light if you need to move around.
4. Manage Devices and Electronics
Power surges when electricity returns can harm sensitive electronics. Unplug televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances to protect them. Leave one light switched on so you'll know when power is restored.
5. Stay Informed
Stay updated by signing up for your DNO's SMS alerts, checking live outage maps, or following their Twitter/X feeds. If mobile networks are disrupted, local radio stations can be a reliable source of regional updates.
How to Prepare for a Power Outage?
Power cuts are usually short, but storms and infrastructure faults can leave some households without electricity for hours or even days. Preparing in advance helps reduce stress and inconvenience.
1. Build an Emergency Kit
A well-stocked kit saves stress when the lights go out. At minimum, include:
Torches or LED lanterns (avoid candles to reduce fire risk).
Spare batteries or rechargeable packs.
Portable phone chargers or power banks.
Warm layers, blankets, and hot water bottles—especially important in winter.
First aid supplies and any essential medications.
Non-perishable food and bottled water, enough for at least 24–48 hours.
Consider storing these items in one box or bag so you can grab them quickly.
2. Keep Communication Open
Blackouts can make you feel cut off. Stay connected by:
Keeping a charged power bank ready at all times.
Writing down important numbers (like your DNO and GP surgery) in case your phone dies.
Having a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for local updates if mobile networks struggle.
3. Plan for Essential Devices
Think about what you rely on daily. Fridges, freezers, Wi-Fi routers, laptops, and medical devices are common concerns. Portable power stations are a practical solution. For example, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station can keep core devices running for hours, ensuring internet access, lighting, or refrigeration.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
4. Consider Renewable Backup
If you want more independence, pair a portable power station with solar panels. Something like the EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panel (2 pieces) lets you recharge during daylight, so you're not reliant on the grid returning quickly. At this point, you might be wondering: how long does solar generator last in power outage? The answer depends on several key factors—your power station's capacity, the number of appliances connected at the same time, and the wattage of the solar panels as well as weather conditions.
However, as long as there is sufficient sunlight during the day, the solar panels can continuously recharge the system. This means that even during extended blackouts, a properly sized solar generator can maintain essential household needs such as lighting, communication devices, and refrigeration.
5. Prepare for Vulnerable Family Members
Households with children, elderly relatives, or those using medical equipment should plan carefully. Register with your DNO's Priority Services Register, which provides extra support during outages.
Conclusion
Power cuts are an unavoidable part of modern infrastructure. However, with the right tools and a clear plan, even extended blackouts can be manageable. Take a few simple steps to manage and report a power cut today, so the next time the lights go out, you'll already be one step ahead.
And if you want greater peace of mind, consider investing in a reliable solar generator to keep your essentials powered and your household running smoothly during any outage.
FAQs
How do I report a power cut in my area?
The quickest way to report blackout in your area is to call 105, the free national helpline. This connects you to your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO), who is responsible for fixing outages. You can also go online at www.powercut105.com, enter your postcode, and submit details about the blackout. Both options ensure your report is logged and updates on restoration are sent to you directly.
What happens if you call 105?
When you dial 105, you're automatically routed to your local electricity network operator rather than your energy supplier. A member of the team will confirm whether your area is already affected, record your details, and provide updates on estimated restoration times. You can also use the line to report dangerous issues such as fallen power lines. The service is free, available 24/7, and works from landlines or mobiles.
How do I check if there's a power outage in my area?
To check for outages, visit www.powercut105.com or your DNO's official website. These platforms offer live outage maps that display affected postcodes, estimated repair times, and the number of customers impacted. Many network operators also provide SMS alert services, email notifications, or even mobile apps. If you prefer speaking to someone, you can still call 105 and ask for an update directly from your operator's control centre team.
How do I report a power outage online?
You can report a power outage online by visiting www.powercut105.com. After entering your postcode, the site redirects you to your local DNO's outage reporting page. From there, you can log details of the incident, provide your contact information, and sometimes sign up for SMS updates. This method is especially convenient during severe weather, when call centres are often busy, and ensures your outage is officially recorded for response.