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Loss of gas supply

Be Prepared

Always have a source of alternative heating available if your gas fails.

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If you smell gas inside or outside your home:

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  • Call the free 24-hour national gas emergency line on 0800 111 999.

 

You’ll be asked a series of questions to identify the right safety advice for you, such as:

  • Don’t turn electrical switches on or off.

  • Open doors or windows.

  • Avoid using naked flames.

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An engineer will be sent to make property safe. Southern Gas Networks aims to attend all uncontrolled escapes within an hour and all controlled escapes within two hours. If the gas is lost for a long period, Southern Gas Networks will send you details about the incident (e.g. update on the situation, when they can safely restore supplies, alternative heating, and cooking provisions etc). In these circumstances:

 

  • Conserve existing heat in your home by using just one or two adjacent rooms. Isolate them by closing doors and/or hanging blankets over doorways. The kitchen and an adjoining room are usually good choices.

  • If you’re told you could be without power for several days, consider moving in with an emergency friend.

Free priority services register for vulnerable residents

 

Sometimes you, or someone you know, may need a bit of additional assistance, especially in the event of a loss of gas supply. Gas companies offer a range of free priority services to help.

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Get extra support when it is needed most by signing your gas company's free priority services register.

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Who can receive extra support?

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  • If you rely on medical equipment

  • If you have refrigerated medicines

  • If you have a serious or chronic illness

  • If you have a disability

  • If you or someone you care for is living with dementia

  • If you are of pensionable age

  • If you have children under five in your household

  • If you need extra support for a short time period (e.g. If you are recovering from medical treatment

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Watch this video to find out about the free support available.

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For further information and to sign up to a priority services register visit your gas company's website.

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