BT has revealed details of how the end of the traditional landline phone will affect millions of homes, warning landline users to prepare for the biggest changes to phone connections in decades.

It will mean the end of traditional landline phones as we know them, as households that still use them will switch to an internet-based service. Families have been assured that they will hardly notice any difference in the switchover and will be able to continue using their phone as before and keep the same number.

However, BT has admitted that in the event of a power cut or broadband connection interruption, people will not be able to use the device, even for emergency calls. This has raised concerns for people living in areas with poor mobile signal.

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BT also sent a message to households that currently have no internet connection. They said they were “working on solutions” for these people, but promised that no one would be left without a phone connection or pay more to have internet access forced on them.

Traditional copper phone lines are due to be phased out next year, although some homes are already being switched to the new service. BT’s website states: “If there is a power cut or your broadband connection fails, you will no longer be able to make calls using Digital Voice, including emergency calls.”

“You can continue to use your mobile phone, but please ensure it is always charged. If you do not have a mobile phone or are in an area with no mobile signal, please contact us on 0330 1234 150.”

Helen Morgan, Liberal Democrat MP for North Shropshire Rural Affairs, expressed concern about the impact on her electorate: “The phasing out of copper cabling could leave people dangerously isolated in an emergency if the power goes out and they don’t have reliable mobile reception. You can’t even drive through North Shropshire and make a phone call because the reception is so poor – so it’s crucial that industry gets this issue under control,” she said.

“I have serious concerns about the switch to digital landlines and the impact the loss of copper landlines will have on some of my most vulnerable constituents. No one should be switched without a suitable replacement plan in place.

“So it’s really important that anyone who is concerned about the switch gets in touch with their landline provider as soon as possible to discuss options.” BT told households without internet: “We are currently working on a range of solutions to keep people without broadband connected.”

“We will inform you about your options in good time. You can be sure that you will not be left without a landline connection and that you will not pay more than you do today.”