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