SP Energy Networks has issued power cut safety advice for snowy conditions.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for West Lothian for Thursday and Friday this week, with snow expected to cause traffic delays and cancellations, with the potential for power supplies and mobile phone coverage to be affected.
SP Energy Networks invests in its networks to improve resilience during extreme weather to help reduce the chance of power loss and always responds to any issues as quickly as possible.
However, in the event of travel disruption, it may be harder for SP Energy Networks’ engineers to quickly reach faults in the network, so residents in affected areas are being encouraged to prepare.
Guy Jefferson, Chief Operating Officer, SP Energy Networks said: “Forecast snow means that potential damage to our power lines is more likely and it’s important our customers are fully prepared, just in case.
“We have additional staff on hand and are ready to mobilise for any potential network impacts.
“If you experience a power cut, please report it to us as quickly as possible by calling the national emergency helpline on 105. The sooner we know about any power cuts, the quicker we can make sure power is restored to anyone impacted.”
SP Energy Networks’ 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. Report any power cuts immediately.
Store a battery or wind-up 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 power lines – power lines may have fallen because of heavy snow so beware of this when venturing out of your home. Always treat them as live and report them right away by calling 105.
Keep your mobile charged – having your mobile phone charged means you can give us a call on the national 105 emergency helpline. It’s also worth having an analogue phone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply.
Keep the heat in – if your power does go out, your heating might not work so keep extra blankets nearby and close window shutters, blinds or curtains to help keep the heat in
For more information on what to do in the event of a power emergency, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk
You can also keep up to date with news and information about power cuts in our area on Twitter @SPEnergyNetwork
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