The national ‘Be Ready’ campaign aims to help households prepare for events such as weather disruption, which can temporarily affect power, water, phone connections and the internet.
The advice encourages households that can do so to prepare for up to three days of disruption. Simple steps include signing up to the free Priority Services Register if eligible and keeping a small supply of non-perishable food and bottled water at home, where possible.
The Priority Services Register helps gas, electricity and water companies identify customers who may need extra support during a disruption. Residents can find out more about eligibility and register for free at www.thepsr.co.uk, or contact their energy or water supplier directly.
“ This is simply about encouraging people to think ahead and take a few sensible steps that could be helpful if there is a temporary interruption to services.
Councillor Elaine Williams, Leader of Walsall Council
This is not about stockpiling or causing concern. We recognise that not everyone can afford to keep extra supplies at home. However, there are free actions people can take, including signing up to the Priority Services Register, keeping useful telephone numbers to hand and checking on relatives or neighbours who may need support. “
The advice marks the start of a three-year campaign to help households across the UK prepare for emergencies such as weather disruption. Similar campaigns already run in other European countries.
Residents can find the government’s advice at https://beready.campaign.gov.uk/
