Test these five things at home

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  You can find a torch in the dark

  Keep a torch in a fixed place, switch it on and check its batteries or charge. Store suitable spare batteries with it and show your household where everything is.

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  Your powerbank actually charges your phone

  Charge your powerbank and connect your phone using the cable you keep with it. Check that it charges. A charged phone does not guarantee mobile reception or internet access.

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  Your radio receives news without mains power

  Switch on your radio using batteries or its charged battery pack. Find your regional public broadcaster and write down the frequency. Test reception where you intend to use the radio.

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  You have food and drink without a fridge or hob

  Keep long-life food ready that you can eat cold, with a manual tin opener if needed. Check your drinking water supply and expiry dates; also go through the full emergency kit checklist.

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  You know which devices need backup power

  For each device, note its connection, power in watts and desired runtime. Test the charging equipment you already own. If you use medical equipment, agree an outage plan with your healthcare provider.

Use this list as a starting point. In an emergency, always follow instructions from the authorities.