Brits put faith in reliability of power networks during winter
Figures released by the Energy Networks Association (ENA) show that the majority (59%) of people think that the reliability of the gas and electricity networks means they don't have to prepare for winter as much as they used to.
2nd November 2017 by Networks
The figures have been released to coincide with Be Winter Ready Day – a new initiative spearheaded by the country’s electricity and gas networks, which aims to help the public be better-prepared if they have a power cut or gas emergency this winter.
The survey found over half (52%) don’t keep a torch in their house in case of a power cut, and over 70% (71%) don’t take steps to get their boiler serviced in advance of winter.
Furthermore, over 70% (72%) don’t know who their local gas or electricity network operators are, with only 21% saying they prepare themselves for winter by finding out who to contact if their gas or electricity goes off.
The energy networks are calling on the public to follow these three steps to Be Winter Ready:
Know your free emergency numbers – in a power cut dial 105 or, for a gas emergency, dial 0800 111999.
Prepare your home – keep a torch handy and get your appliances serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Vulnerable households can get extra support by signing up to the Priority Services Register.
Keep your eyes open – keep an eye on the weather forecast and, if you have a power cut or a gas emergency, check on your neighbours.
David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, said: “In recent years the chances of unplanned problems with electricity and gas supply have reduced dramatically. Since 1990, network companies have invested £80bn in improving the reliability of local energy networks in the UK. On average, electricity customers have a power cut just once every two years and gas customers will have their gas supply interrupted just once every 40 years.
“However, as the nights get colder and darker, the chances of severe weather increase. Storms, floods and other extreme conditions can sometimes cause damage to the electricity network and disrupt the energy supply. That’s why we are calling on the public to Be Winter Ready and make sure they are prepared in case they have a power cut or gas emergency.”
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