People had been warned of the possibility for blackouts amid fears of staff shortages could result in problems with the country's power community.

Fears were raised that a staff sickness throughout the coronavirus outbreak, mixed with the government's self-isolation rules, could cause a scarcity of engineers. 

Power Grid
(Photo : Pixabay)

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Keep your doors shut

The National Grid in the United Kingdom insists that the network is capable of coping up, described it as 'certainly one of the most reliable networks in the world.'

It comes as one electrical infrastructure firm has written to some of its clients, warning them to hold torches and heat clothes in case of strength cuts.

U.K. Power Networks, which owns and maintains the energy cables in England and London, has written to its clients what to do if their houses are hit with an energy cut.

The recommendation, told in The Daily Telegraph, includes 'keeping a torch handy' and 'reducing heat loss by closing doors on unused rooms.'

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Customers are also counseled to have a 'hat, gloves and a blanket at hand to maintain warm' and, where feasible, to keep a corded telephone in the house, in addition to a strength bank to recharge mobile phones.

A spokesperson for U.K. Power Networks said they often contact customers on our Priority Services Register. The spokesperson added the company ensures it meets the client's needs, and it's in no way more crucial than the current circumstances.

U.K. Power Networks said it would continue to fix power cuts and maintain the electricity network to ensure its continued reliability. "This is to ensure we continue to provide them [clients] with the best possible support," it added.

The recommendation comes as many strength corporations across the United Kingdom put non-essential infrastructure work on hold.

Power companies to implement emergency procedures

Companies have additionally implemented emergency procedures to address the knock-on outcomes of COVID-19, which has infected more than 800,000 people worldwide. At least 39,000 humans have died as a result of the virus.

Other electricity distributors throughout the country are also reportedly contacting the most affected sectors. The power firms also are ensuring workers can continue to work on critical projects while abiding by the government's social distancing rules.

However, one electricity firm, S.P. Energy Networks, said that staff sickness was a particular concern. 

Concerns have also raised on the duration of time that the authorities' social distancing guidance might be in the region for.

The National Grid, which owns Britain's electric transmission community, previously said it would keep electricity working during the pandemic.

"We have well-developed procedures in place to manage the effects of a pandemic," the electric corporation assured. The company also told its personnel who do not need to be onsite to work from home where possible.

"This measure has been introduced to limit the spread of the virus, protect the health and safety of all our people, and ensure those in operational roles can continue to do their jobs," it added.

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