Be Summer Ready

• Notify family members, friends and neighbours, so they know you've not got any power and you may need support.
• Close curtains or blinds during the day to keep indoor spaces cooler.
• Use battery-powered or solar fans to circulate air safely
• Apply a cool, damp towel to your skin, or lightly mist yourself with water.
• Drink water regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
• If it's safe and possible, move to a cooler location such as a shaded public area, community centre, or relative’s home.
• Use a portable power bank to keep phones and other devices fully charged.

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.  Food in a fridge can stay safe for around 4 hours without power. A full freezer may remain cold for up to 48 hours; a half-full one, about 24 hours.
• Unfortunately, Electricity North West is unable to reimburse customers for food lost during a power cut. However, your home insurance policy may cover such losses, please check with your provider.  If you're claiming through insurance, we can provide a letter confirming the outage, just Contact us for details. 
• Add ice packs or blocks to your fridge to help maintain a lower temperature.
• If you're concerned about keeping medications or perishable food cool, consider taking them to a friend or family member’s home with power.
• Your local pharmacy may also be able to store your medication, please contact them directly.
• Some medicines can tolerate temperatures up to 30°C, but you should always consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

• If there's a chance you might struggle in a power outage, we recommend joining our Extra care register for additional support during outages.

Hot weather often brings out paddling pools, sprinklers, and garden hoses. Make sure outdoor electrical items like chargers, extension cords, or lights are kept well clear of water sources to avoid the risk of electric shock.

With fans, air conditioning units, and other cooling devices running, it's easy to overload power sockets.  Stick to one high-powered appliance per outlet and never daisy-chain extensions.  Daisy-chaining extensions means plugging one extension lead into another and possibly repeating that several times.

Heat can make plastic and rubber brittle.  Inspect cables and plugs regularly, especially if they’re used outdoors or stored in hot sheds or garages.  Replace anything frayed, cracked, or melted.

If you're trimming trees or cleaning outside, stay well clear of overhead power cables.  Never attempt to move fallen lines, call us immediately by dialling 105 if you spot any damage.

Only use appliances and sockets designed for outdoor use in the garden or patio areas.  Indoor-rated plugs and cords can quickly become a hazard in warm or humid conditions.

Summer’s a popular time for home upgrades.  If you’re drilling into walls, loft spaces, or fences, be cautious around hidden electrical cables. If in doubt use a professional.

High temperatures can cause batteries (especially lithium-ion) to overheat and potentially catch fire.  Keep power banks and spare batteries out of direct sunlight and away from enclosed spaces like glove compartments.

Allow air to circulate around fridges, freezers, and other electric appliances to stop them overheating.  Clean dust from vents and avoid storing items on top of them.

Make sure mobile phones and battery-powered torches are charged, especially if storms are forecast. Find out more Tips to prepare for a power cut

If you notice sparking equipment, damaged poles, or unusual humming from substations or cabinets, report it right away. Even if it seems minor, it could prevent a serious safety issue.

Keep curtains and blinds closed during peak sun hours (11 am – 3 pm) to reduce indoor heat.  Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.  Always wear high factor sunscreen, cover up and wear a hat.

Electric fans can help, but they can warm the room if left on all day.  Use them in the early morning or evening for better airflow.  Remember to turn them off when you leave the room.

Try to run appliances like dishwashers or washing machines during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late evening) to reduce pressure on the electricity network.

Keep your fridge and freezer full (even if it’s just bottles of water) so they stay cool more efficiently.  And avoid opening doors frequently during hot spells.

Switch off unnecessary lights and avoid halogen bulbs which can emit heat.  LED lighting stays cooler and uses far less electricity.

Check in on older adults or anyone who may need extra support.  They may be more affected by the heat or less likely to use cooling devices due to cost worries.

Sign up to our free Extra Care register for additional support in the event of a power cut. We'll keep you updated and prioritise help if you rely on medical equipment or need extra assistance.

Storms and power cuts can sometimes follow heatwaves.  Keep torches, fully charged mobile devices, and a battery-powered fan handy just in case.

Light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton will help regulate body temperature without relying too heavily on fans or air conditioning.

If you're spending time outside, stay in shaded areas and avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day.