Power Cut Checklist for Isle of Man Homes

When the power goes out on the Isle of Man, start with three things: find a safe light, check whether the outage is local to your home, and keep the fridge and freezer shut.

1. Report the power cut

Look out to see whether nearby homes or streetlights are affected. If only your home has lost power, check your consumer unit if it is safe to do so. For electricity faults or loss of supply, call Manx Utilities on 01624 687687. Keep away from fallen power lines. Call 999 if there is an immediate danger to life.

2. Set up lighting and stay in touch

Use an LED lantern to light a room, a handheld torch to move around and a head torch when you need both hands. Keep a spare set of the right batteries beside your lights. Use your phone sparingly and keep a charged power bank and cable handy. Check in with neighbours or relatives who may need help, if it is safe to do so. If someone relies on powered medical equipment, follow their backup plan and contact their care provider promptly.

For a battery-powered option, see the NEBO Galileo Air 500 lantern. You can also browse torches, head torches and lanterns or see the Emergency Essentials collection.

3. Keep warm and protect chilled food

Put on extra layers and use blankets. Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible, note when the power went off, and check the Food Standards Agency guidance on food safety after a power cut. Keep drinking water and shelf-stable food that can be eaten cold. A manual tin opener is useful.

4. Use camping stoves outdoors only

Never use a camping stove, barbecue or portable generator inside your home, garage or other enclosed space. These can produce deadly carbon monoxide. If the weather and location allow safe outdoor cooking, follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the specified fuel. Never change a gas cartridge indoors or near an ignition source. See fire service power-cut safety advice.

For outdoor use, see the Vango Atom camping stove and the camping gas range. Check the stove's required cartridge before buying.

5. Restock once the power returns

Recharge torches and power banks, replace used batteries and replenish water and ready-to-eat food. Keep a first-aid kit where everyone can find it. For more ways to prepare, see the Isle of Man Government's winter preparedness advice.