Utilities disruption (power, water, gas, telecoms)
Power, water, gas and communication services can occasionally be disrupted. Knowing what to do can help keep you safe and reduce the impact on your household.
Power cuts
If you have a power cut, call 105 to report it or get information about the problem.
Do not call 999 unless there is an immediate danger to life.
You should:
- keep a battery-powered torch available
- avoid using candles because they can cause fires
- check on vulnerable neighbours where it is safe to do so
Water supply interruptions
If your water supply stops, check with your water provider for information about the problem.
Residents who may need extra support during interruptions should consider joining their water supplier's Priority Services Register.
Check Thames Water service updates
Gas leaks
If you smell gas, suspect a carbon monoxide leak or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the building immediately.
Call the National Gas Emergency Service.
Telephone: 0800 111 999
Call 999 if there is an immediate danger to life.
Telephone and mobile network outages
If your mobile network is unavailable, you may still be able to make emergency calls to 999 using another available mobile network.
If your broadband connection is working, you may also be able to make calls using Wi-Fi Calling if your device and provider support it.
If communication services are disrupted for a prolonged period, listen to local updates and follow advice from emergency services and the council.
How emergency services respond
During major disruptions, emergency services, utility providers and the council work together to protect public safety and restore services.
Metropolitan Police
The police help maintain public safety, coordinate emergency responses and support affected communities.
London Fire Brigade
The fire brigade responds to fires, rescues and other emergencies that may arise during utility failures or major incidents.
London Ambulance Service
The ambulance service provides emergency medical care and works with hospitals to maintain essential healthcare services.
Croydon Council
The council supports local communities, provides welfare assistance and shares information with residents during emergencies.
Utility providers
Utility and telecommunications companies work to identify faults, restore services and support emergency response arrangements.
Community support
Voluntary organisations may assist emergency services by supporting vulnerable residents, sharing information and helping affected communities.
Useful contacts
Emergency services
Telephone: 999
For emergencies where there is an immediate risk to life.
NHS 111
Telephone: 111
For urgent medical advice when it is not a life-threatening emergency.
Metropolitan Police
Telephone: 101
For non-emergency police enquiries.
Croydon Council
Telephone: 020 8726 6000
UK Power Networks
Telephone: 105
Alternative telephone: 0800 316 3105
Thames Water
Telephone: 0800 316 9800
National Gas Emergency Service
Telephone: 0800 111 999
British Red Cross
Telephone: 020 8402 3598