Power cuts can be particularly challenging for those who use medical equipment which depends on electricity. This equipment includes:
- Heart, lung or ventilator machine
- Dialysis, feeding pump and automated medication
- Oxygen concentrator
- Nebuliser
- Sleep apnoea monitor
- Medically dependant showering/bathing
- Careline/telecare system
- Medicine refrigeration
- Stair lift
- Bath hoist
- Electric bed
If you are dependent on any of the equipment above, there are a few things you should do to prepare yourself for a power cut.
1. Join the Priority Service Register
Signing up to our Priority service register means that your network operator is aware of your electrical equipment and can offer a variety of support and advice surrounding power cuts.
You can do this online or you can call our Customer Care team on 0330 10 10 167.
2. Talk to a medical professional
Discuss how a potential power cut will affect you and your medical equipment with your carer or doctor who will help you plan for such an event.
3. Battery back-up
If you have not done so already, consider a battery back-up for your essential medical equipment should you experience a power cut.