SAFETY guidance has been given to help people experiencing power cuts this winter.

Due to weather warnings being issued for the Borders this weekend, Scottish Power Energy Networks is helping customers to prepare for the difficult conditions.

Because of the bad weather there is a risk that staff from the SP Energy Network may not make it to faults – therefore people are asked to be prepared.

Craig Arthur, SP Distribution Director for Central and Southern Scotland, 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’re currently mobilising teams of engineers to areas where we expect the weather to have the most impact and our teams are on hand 24/7 to help all of our customers should they find themselves without power.

“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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

In the event of a power cut call the national 105 emergency helpline.