Collection: Power Cut Kits

When the lights go out, the difference between a cosy evening and a chaotic one is a box you put together in advance. Our power cut kits bundle the four things every blackout needs — light, information, phone power and warmth — so you're not hunting for a candle stub by phone torch.

What to have ready for a power cut

A lantern or torches for every room you'll use (far safer than candles with children or pets), a wind-up or battery radio for updates if mobile networks wobble, a charged power bank, and warmth if it's winter — heating usually goes down with the power.

Good to know before it happens

Call 105 — the free national number — to report or get updates on a power cut in England, Scotland and Wales. If someone in your home relies on powered medical equipment, register with your network operator's Priority Services Register now, not during the outage.

Power cut FAQs

What should I do first in a power cut?

Check your fuse box and whether neighbours are off too, then call 105 for information. Then it's lantern on, radio on, fridge closed.

How long does food last in the fridge and freezer?

Kept closed, a fridge holds safe temperatures for around 4 hours and a full freezer for up to 48 hours (24 if half full).

Are candles OK to use?

They work, but unattended flames cause house fires every winter. Battery lanterns are brighter, safer with kids and pets, and last for days on one set of batteries.

Will my phone still work?

Usually — but masts can fail in longer outages and your router won't work without mains. A battery radio and a charged power bank cover the gap.