Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution (SSEPD) engineers are preparing for the severe gales forecast across the north of Scotland and central southern England in order to be able to repair any damage caused to the electricity network.
Several hundred engineers and support staff are being mobilised throughout depots and offices across SSEPD’s network area in anticipation of repairing any damage on the network from winds of up to 80mph.
Extra call handlers are also on hand to give customers advice and to talk to anyone who may lose their electricity supply. Calls will be made to vulnerable customers and co-ordination is being undertaken with local resilience groups to ensure their welfare.
In the event of a power cut, customers are being urged to take some simple steps to maintain their welfare while SSEPD engineers work to restore their power. This could include boiling some water for a thermos and ensuring there are batteries for a torch. For more tips please visit: http://www.ssepd.co.uk/CustomerService/PowerCuts/Preparation
A power cut can be particularly distressing for vulnerable customers who rely on electricity, such as the elderly, those with medical requirements, the disabled or people with young babies. Anyone who hasn’t contacted SSEPD to register for extra support is being urged to do so on 0800 294 3259.
SSEPD has invested significantly in strengthening the local electricity network this year in order to increase resilience over the winter. However, in some areas, the network may be affected by the exceptional weather event anticipated tomorrow and resources have been put in place to be able to restore power as quickly as possible.
Any customers who do lose their electricity supply are urged to contact our dedicated team on 0800 300 999 in North of Scotland and 0800 072 72 82 in central southern England to report damage or highlight neighbours or friends who may need extra help.