Gosport MP, Caroline Dinenage, is backing the launch of a new number that aims to support members of the public if they experience a power cut.
Many people don't know who to contact during a power cut and wrongly call the electricity supplier they pay their bill to. 105 has been set up to help people get through their local electricity network operator – the company responsible for the power network that delivers electricity to their door.
It is a free, easy-to-remember number that people can call to report or get information about a power cut in their area. It puts callers through to the people who will repair their local power network and restore their power.
Caroline said:
'I welcome the introduction of 105 and believe the service will be of great benefit to all of my constituents. Power cuts can leave people feeling confused about what to do. 105 will help to tackle this.'
David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, said:
'We know there's a need to provide people with a simple and memorable number they can call in the event of a power cut. This is particularly important when there's bad weather, as severe storms can cause disruption to the electricity supply into homes and businesses.
That's why we've launched 105. It is jointly funded by electricity network operators and is the first three-digit number to be approved for use by the private sector. We hope it will be welcomed by electricity customers who are often unsure about what to do in a power cut.'
105 is available to electricity customers in England, Scotland and Wales. The number can be accessed from most landlines and mobile phones. It doesn't matter who you choose to buy electricity from - anyone can call 105.
The public can also call 105 if they spot damage to electricity power lines and substations that could put them, or someone else, in danger. If there's a serious immediate risk, the emergency services should be called too.
Visit www.powercut105.com to find out more about 105 and electricity network operators.
