WITH Storm Ciara being forecast to bring heavy rain, snow and widespread gales across Cheshire and Warrington this weekend, SP Energy Networks has issued power cut safety advice to help customers stay safe in the event of a power cut.
Strong winds – gusting up to 65-75mph are expected in coastal and exposed areas, with parts of Cheshire looking at gusts nearer 85mph.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warning for gale force winds and widespread heavy showers, it also warned that the storm could have an impact on traffic causing delays and cancellations to transport services.
SP Energy Networks the electricity distributor for Cheshire, has been working hard throughout the year to improve the power networks’ resilience during extreme weather conditions to help reduce the chance of power loss. Flooding on roads can make it difficult for SP Energy Networks engineers to reach faults in the network, therefor it is important for residents across Cheshire to be prepared.
Stephen Stewart, Director at SP Energy Networks’ for Cheshire gives his advice on what residents should do in the event of a power cut.
“Although power cuts are rare events for most people, during storms they become more likely. Storm Ciara is set to reach Cheshire so it’s important that our customers are prepared for a power cut, just in case.
“Our team of engineers have been working hard to increase the resilience of the network. We do however, have a team of engineers on hand 24/7 who will come out to your area in the event of any power outages caused by the extreme weather. You can report any power cuts to us by calling the national emergency 105 helpline.”
Stephen Stewart’s top tips for being prepared in the event of a power outage are:
•Have the national 105 emergency helpline on hand – it’s best to keep this on the fridge or saved in the contacts on your mobile phone.
•Store a battery powered torch – leave this somewhere you can access easily so you can use the torch to check on the fuse box and make your way around the house safely.
•Beware of fallen powerlines – power lines may have fallen because of high winds so beware of this when venturing out of your home.
•Keep your mobile charged – having your mobile phone charged means that you can give us a call on the national 105 emergency helpline. Alternatively, if your mobile is out of battery or signal, it’s worth having an analogue phone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply.
• Join the free Priority Services Register – if electricity is crucial to your health (for instance, if you use medical equipment at home) or you have a child aged five or under, or you just feel you need a little extra help, ask to be included on SP Energy Networks’ Priority Services Register by calling 0330 1010 167 or text PSR to 61999. If your power is off, we can make sure you are supported. Find out more about joining the PSR here.
For more information on what to do in the event of a power emergency, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk. In the event of a power cut call the new national 105 emergency helpline.
The Met Office Weater Forecast for Warrington over the coming days is:
Saturday:
It will stay mostly dry on Saturday with some bright or sunny spells. Becoming increasingly windy through the afternoon, with coastal gales likely. Turning wet and remaining very windy overnight. Maximum temperature 9 °C.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:
Heavy rain and strong winds Sunday, followed by blustery showers. The beginning of next week will stay windy and see further blustery showers, with some turning wintry over the hills.
For the latest updates CLICK HERE https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gcqpszhz5
