Thunderstorms in the UK: practical lightning safety
Make a UK thunderstorm plan: choose proper shelter, stop exposed activities, manage journeys and know when to seek emergency help.
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Practical guides
Guides for planning around common disruptions. Read the guide that matches your household.
123 articles to exploreWritten for UK households
Showing 61–72 of 123 guides
Toilets and hygiene when the water supply stops
Plan handwashing and toilet use during a water outage, distinguish sewer failure and follow local instructions for temporary sanitation.
What a water filter can and cannot remove
Read water-filter claims, certification and operating limits without assuming a jug or outdoor filter makes every water source safe.
When the power comes back: safe checks before restarting appliances
Check for damage, restart appliances safely and know when to call the network operator or an electrician after electricity returns.
Wildfire smoke and nearby fires: a UK household plan
Prepare for nearby wildfire and smoke with clear information sources, accessible evacuation arrangements and sensible indoor precautions.
Will a home battery work in a power cut?
Check whether a permanent home battery supports power-cut backup, which circuits work, runtime limits and questions for a qualified installer.
Write a walking route card you can actually use
Write a practical UK walking route card with checkpoints, realistic timing, safe alternatives, contact arrangements and a clear turnaround plan.
Can a portable power station run a heater, boiler or medical kit?
Learn how watts and watt-hours relate, why electric heaters use substantial energy, and how to plan safely for boilers and medical equipment.
Power cuts during storms: what to expect and what to do
Why storm power cuts can last longer: read the warning, report on 105, follow changing restoration times and keep away from fallen lines.
Winter power cut checklist for UK homes
A practical winter power cut checklist for UK households, from advance planning to safe overnight routines and restoring normal service.
A 72-hour emergency kit for a UK household
Build a three-day home emergency kit around meals, water, lighting, communication and everyday care, with a practical test before you pack it away.
A car emergency kit you can reach and use
Build a practical UK car emergency kit, know what to do after a breakdown, and keep passengers safe without attempting roadside repairs.