Source: Northern Ireland Direct
Date published:
There is information about public services affected by Storm Éowyn and drop-in centres for those without water or power. Also, advice on food safety, the dangers of carbon monoxide and damaged electricity equipment or power lines. Keep a close eye on neighbours and support them in whatever way you can.
Emergency numbers
You should note the following numbers in case of emergency:
- emergency services – 999 or 112
- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643
- NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001
- Northern Ireland Water Waterline – 03457 440 088
- Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100
- Housing Executive – 03448 920 901
Damaged electricity equipment or power lines
Do not approach any damaged electricity equipment or broken power lines.
Be extra careful around fallen trees, as they often take electricity poles and wires with them as they fall.
Be aware that electricity can jump gaps.
Report anything that looks dangerous to NIE Networks on:
- phone: 03457 643643
Reporting a power cut or damaged power line
If your power is off or you’ve found a damaged power line, you can report it or get more information – contact NIE Networks or visit their website:
- NIE Networks Customer Helpline: 03457 643 643
- Power cuts
Electricity supply
You can information about electricity supply, including an updated list of areas affected by power cuts, on the NIE Networks website.
Local councils information and community assistance or drop-in centres
There is information about community assistance or drop-in centres at this link – NIE Networks representatives will be at a number of these venues:
You can find your local council area information, including about community drop-in centres, at these links:
Water supply
If there are difficulties with water supply and sewerage, you will get the most up-to-date information on areas experiencing disruption and what is being done on the NI Water website. This includes a full postcode search facility.
You can also phone Waterline 24 hours a day/ 365 days a year on:
- 03457 440088
Older people, people with a serious medical condition, or people who need extra help for any other reason can join the NI Water customer care register to get a range of free extra services.
Carbon monoxide dangers
If you’re without electricity, using equipment such as kerosene heaters, charcoal grills (BBQs) and portable generators indoors can cause carbon monoxide levels high enough to result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
Only equipment designed to be used indoors should be brought inside the home.
For any fuel-burning equipment indoors:
- there must be good ventilation
- it must be used with a carbon monoxide alarm
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
There is further advice at this link:
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, nausea, breathlessness, dizziness, collapse, and loss of consciousness.
If affected, you should:
- open doors and windows for ventilation and go outside into the fresh air
- go to your GP or nearest Emergency Department
- if it’s urgent, call 999
- call the relevant emergency advice line
- Gas Emergency Service (24 hours) 0800 002 001
- Oil (OFTEC) 0845 65 85 080
Food safety advice
If a power cut has affected your home and you have no electricity supply, it’s important you continue to store and prepare food safely.
You can find advice at this link:
If your water supply is cut off, it is recommended using alcohol-based hand sanitiser for cleaning your hands before touching food.
Report a fallen tree or blocked road
You can report a fallen tree or blocked road at the following link:
Roads information
Work is ongoing to remove obstructions. Road users are advised to use caution, as there is debris on some roads and roadsides.
You can get the latest updates about roads at this link:
Where roads are closed, follow road signs and any diversions in place.
Public transport
For the latest information on bus and train services, go to the Translink website.
School closures
You can find information about schools affected by the bad weather at this link:
MOT and driving tests
Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) testing services resumed as scheduled on Saturday 25 January.
There is some disruption for vehicle tests anticipated at Armagh and Omagh, and driving tests at Altnagelvin.
DVA will contact affected customers.
Unless you receive a notification from DVA, you should arrive for your appointment as scheduled.
Public libraries
All public libraries are open, with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and seating.
Find out more about the services available at:
Jobs and Benefits offices and Department for Communities offices
All Jobs and Benefits offices and Department for Communities offices are open, except for the Foyle Jobs and Benefit Office due to some storm damage.
Temporary closure of Foyle Jobs and Benefits office
Information for benefits customers:
- Foyle Jobs and Benefits office is currently closed due to storm damage
- staff working remotely are providing a normal service
- while the office is closed, benefit payments due will still be paid by the date due
- Universal Credit customers can use the online service and journal as usual
- telephone calls will be handled by staff working remotely
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) signing at Foyle Jobs and Benefits offices is excused
- staff will contact affected customers for telephone or alternative in-person appointments
- customers in need of urgent in-person support can contact another Jobs and Benefits office
Forests, country parks, nature reserves and angling
Safe public access at all sites by the storm will be reinstated as soon as possible.
Birdkeepers
Birdkeepers are reminded to be extra vigilant during the clean-up following the storm.
Flooding or damage to hen houses can increase the risk of an avian influenza incursion.
Health services
Urgent and emergency care services are open as normal.
Use the Phone First service for your local Health and Social Care Trust before travelling to an Emergency Department.
However, call 999 if you or someone you care for is experiencing a life-threatening emergency.
You can find information from the Trusts at these links:
Financial help if your house floods
If your home is flooded due to the weather, contact the local council and ask about their emergency payments scheme.