Hundreds of homes across Oldham are set to go without power this week as engineers plan a series of improvement works to underground cables.

The planned power cuts are being carried out by Electricity North West engineers to improve the electricity supply in the area.

Homes and businesses across Chadderton, Royton and Saddleworth can expect a power cut on Tuesday (October 22) or Friday (October 25) this week.

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On its power cut information page, the company said: "We appreciate your patience while our engineers carry out a planned power cut in your area, this is to improve the reliability of your electricity supply and so our engineers can safely work on the cables that provide electricity to your home or business."

As many as 28 properties in Royton and three in Chadderton will be affected on Tuesday.

The post codes affected in Royton cover OL1 2SU, OL1 2SS, OL1 2SR and OL1 2TB, and in Chadderton, OL1 2RP.

Then on Friday, 198 properties across Saddleworth will go without power.

The post codes affected are: OL3 5QR, OL3 5NS, OL3 5BP, OL3 5BH, OL3 5QX, OL3 5PJ, OL3 5BW, OL3 5BQ, OL3 5BA, OL3 5BB, OL3 5QY, OL3 5QT, OL3 5RR, OL3 5RA, OL3 5AZ, OL3 5BS, OL3 5BY, OL3 7BX, OL3 5SX, OL3 5HN, OL3 5TY, OL3 5EF and OL3 5LE.

Electricity North West advises residents to keep a "safe distance" from electrical equipment during the power cut to avoid accidents, injuries and even fatalities.

Amongst tips to keep safe, it says to keep the fridge freezer door closed to protect its contents which should allow produce to last for several hours.

Check homes with a stair lift have a battery backup which means they can be used safely in the event of a power cut.

Tropical fish and reptiles should also be ok for a few hours without power but the company advises residents to unplug the filters to stop toxins entering the water and to cover that tank with a blanket to keep the heat in.

Leave at least one light on in the house so that you know when the electricity is back on.

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk