An adult and an older woman read a medicine leaflet together at a kitchen table, with a list of phone numbers on the fridge.

Someone at home depends on medicine or equipment

2 minute read

The short answer

Register as a vulnerable customer with your electricity supplier.

Start here

  1. Register as a vulnerable customer with your electricity supplier. Ask the supplier about the support available for your household.
  2. Make a plan with your pharmacist or GP before a power cut. Agree what to do with fridge medicines and powered equipment. Read medical dependence and power cuts.
  3. Keep the pharmacy, GP and out-of-hours numbers with your plan. Ask your GP for the local out-of-hours contact.
  4. Ring 112 or 999 in an emergency.

We do not give medical advice.

Agree your plan before a power cut

Talk to your pharmacist or GP about fridge medicines and powered equipment before power is lost. Keep their advice with your pharmacy, GP and out-of-hours numbers.

Common questions

Where do I get advice for my household?

Speak to your pharmacist or GP and use HSE advice on preparing for severe weather.

Who should I ask about fridge medicines and powered equipment?

Make a plan with your pharmacist or GP before a power cut and agree what to do with your medicines and equipment.

Where do I register as a vulnerable customer?

Contact your electricity supplier and ask about the support available for your household.

What to do next

Where this advice comes from, checked 2 November 2026

Checked

  1. ESB Networks vulnerable customers.
  2. HSE preparing for severe weather.