Be prepared this winter urges NIE

Although NIE Networks has been working throughout the pandemic to carry out the essential work needed to ensure the resilience of the electricity network, they still want customers here to think ahead as supply can be affected by severe weather damage and storms.

Trevor Harron, Network Operations Manager for NIE Networks, wants to ensure that every customer is winter ready, particularly those who are vulnerable or working in the agricultural sector. He said: “Although we minimise the loss of power where possible, we want customers to think ahead and plan how they can manage during a power cut. With coronavirus restrictions and life impacted by the pandemic, it’s even more important customers are prepared.

“We particularly want customers who have critical health care needs, as well as those within rural communities and the agricultural industry, to take the necessary steps to ensure any duration of power cut is manageable.”

Customers dependent on life supporting medical equipment are encouraged to apply to the NIE Networks Medical Customer Care Register to receive regular information during a power cut.

NIE Networks has also provided a power cut checklist on their website which includes tips such as locating your trip switch, knowing your unique customer number, stocking up on battery powered lights and having the NIE Networks Customer Helpline number 03457 643 643 easily to hand.