Be ready

Storms and cold snaps can disrupt power, water and other services.

Taking three simple steps now will help you – and those you care for – be ready for whatever winter brings.

Join the Priority Services Register

If you’re over 60 – or have health or care needs, young children, or rely on medical equipment – you should be eligible for free extra support during a power or water outage.

Find out more, check if you’re eligible and join today at the Priority Services Register (PSR) website.

Pack a “just in case” bag

Having a few basics ready can make all the difference if services stop. Include:

• Torch and batteries
• Warm layers (blanket, jumper, socks)
• Long-life food that doesn’t need cooking
• Bottled water
• Medicines
• Important phone numbers
• Mobile phone power bank.

Know who you can call

Write down the key numbers for your utility companies, your council, GP and trusted neighbours or family. Keep the list with your bag of essentials. Remember, you might not be able to access numbers stored in a mobile phone if the power runs out.

Download our PDF list of key contacts.

Help someone you know

Friends, family, neighbours and carers can make a big difference. Share this advice, or help someone you support to:

• Join the Priority Services Register
• Put together a bag of essentials
• Write down their emergency numbers.

Staying safe in emergencies

We’ve produced a booklet of practical advice on how to avoid hazards and stay safe in a wide range of emergency situations.

• Download a copy of the booklet
• Download an MP3 audio version of the guide
• Request a hard copy through the post, email [email protected] with your name, address, and postcode.

About this information

This information is provided by the Sussex Resilience Forum, the partnership of agencies - including the NHS, councils, police and emergency services - that keep Sussex safe.