Electric blankets can be a serious fire safety risk, warn Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, which is offering free checks at county fire stations in September.
A quarter of electric blankets are condemned as dangerous after they fail the test, revealed Fire Safety Officer Alison Teece.
“Your electric blanket may appear safe especially if it is not very old but damage to the blanket is not always visible and this can lead to it catching fire,” warned Alison.
She appealed for people to take advantage of the free testing being carried out with the help of RMW Electrical, of Shrewsbury.
To arrange the check, call Shrewsbury Fire HQ on 01743 260200 from September 19 to 23 to book a time slot.
The blanket tests will be carried out at Ludlow Fire Station, Weeping Cross Lane, on Tuesday, September 27; Shrewsbury Fire Station, St. Michaels Street, on Wednesday, September 28 and Market Drayton Fire Station, Maer Road, on Friday, September 30.
“To avoid disappointment please book as soon as possible as there are only limited places available,” urged Alison.
Anyone unable to bring their blanket to the fire station should carry out their own safety checks.
Check regularly for scorch marks or visual signs of damage.
Don’t fold the electric blanket but roll it.
Never buy or use a second hand blanket.
Don’t use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket and always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always ensure you have working smoke alarms on each level of your home and test them weekly.
Anyone who would like more information can call Alison Teece at the Prevention department at Shrewsbury Fire HQ’s on 01743 260258 or visit www.shropshirefire.gov.uk for fire prevention advice.
