BT has issued a warning to millions of households as traditional landline phones are set to be 'switched off'. The telecoms giant has detailed how the end of conventional landline phones will impact millions across the UK.

Those who still use landlines are being urged to brace for the most significant changes in decades.

The shift involves the phasing out of traditional landline phones, with households that still use them being transitioned to an internet-based service. BT has reassured families that they will barely notice any difference when the switch is made and should continue to use their phone as usual, retaining the same number.

However, BT has conceded that in the event of a power outage or if the broadband goes down, people won't be able to use it, including making 999 calls. This revelation has sparked worries about individuals living in areas with weak mobile phone signal, reports Birmingham Live.

BT has also sent a message to households that currently lack an internet connection. They stated they were "working on solutions" for these individuals but assured no one would be left without a phone service or forced to pay more for essentially having the internet imposed on them.

BT has issued a warning on its website regarding the upcoming switch from traditional copper wire landlines to a new digital service, stating: "If there's a power cut or your broadband fails, you'll be unable to make any calls using Digital Voice, including 999 calls."

"You'll still be able to use a mobile phone, just make sure you keep it charged at all times. If you don't have a mobile phone or are in an area with no mobile signal, please contact us on 0330 1234 150."

Helen Morgan, the Lib Dem MP for North Shropshire, expressed her concerns about the potential risks this change poses to her constituents, particularly in emergencies: "Phasing out copper wire could leave people dangerously isolated in an emergency, if their power is down and they don't have a reliable mobile signal. You can't even drive across North Shropshire and make a phone call due to how poor the signal can be so it's crucial the industry gets a grip on this problem," she remarked.

Morgan also highlighted the importance of ensuring that vulnerable individuals are not left without a reliable means of communication: "I have serious concerns over the digital landline switchover and the impact that losing copper wire landlines will have on some of my most vulnerable constituents. Nobody should be switched without a proper back-up plan in place."

She urged those worried about the transition to reach out to their providers: "Therefore it's really important that anyone concerned about the switchover contacts their landline provider to discuss their options as soon as possible."

In response to concerns, BT reassured customers without internet access, saying: "We're currently working on different solutions to keep people who have no Broadband connected."

"We'll be sure to let you know well in advance what your options are. Rest assured, you won't be left without a home phone service and you won't pay more than you do today."