NIE Networks has urged people who are dependent on medical equipment to be prepared for power cuts during disruptive weather this winter.

The warning is also issued to domestic, business and agricultural customers as storm seasons gets underway.

NIE Networks owns the network of lines, poles and substations that takes electricity from power stations to homes and businesses in Northern Ireland. The company has more than 910,000 customers.

Alex Houston, Network Operations Manager for NIE Networks, said: "Our teams work throughout the year to ensure the electricity network remains in a safe and reliable condition, but severe weather can cause significant damage so it’s important customers think about how to prepare in case of a power cut,” he said.

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"We particularly want customers in the agricultural industry, rural communities, and those who have critical healthcare needs, to take the necessary steps to ensure that any duration of power cut is manageable."

Mr Houston said customers can take a number of actions to prepare for an unexpected power cut. Measures include:

• Locating your trip switch

• Stocking up on battery powered lights

• Ensuring medical equipment has back up battery – contact your healthcare provider if you have issues

• Ensuring the NIE Networks Customer Helpline number 03457 643 643 is easily to hand

Agricultural workers have also been advised to consider their processes in the event of a power cut to ensure that animals can still be appropriately looked after.

NIE Network users can report a power cut on the company's website, as well as being able to access real time information about the power cut. Those customers who are dependent on medical equipment have been encouraged to register on the NIE Networks Medical Customer Care Register so that they will receive regular updates during a power cut.