South Gloucestershire residents are invited to have their electric blankets tested free of charge.
Testing normally costs at least £20, but South Gloucestershire Council, in partnership with Avonsafe, is offering free testing at The Pavillion, Elm Park, Filton on Friday 18th September.
Each year more than 5,000 house fires are accidentally caused by faulty electric blankets and up to 20 people are killed and 250 injured in these fires.
Checking of blankets is by appointment only. On previous events this service has been fully booked so early booking is recommended. For more information and to make a booking please call 01454 863632.
Top tips to help keep your electric blanket safe:
- Get an expert to check your blanket at least every three years.
- Always switch off a blanket before getting into bed, unless it is specifically designed for overnight use.
- Make sure any blanket is properly attached to the bed – curled blankets can overheat.
- Get blankets checked, or ideally replaced if there are worn areas or scorch marks on the fabric.
- Check that the flex is not damaged in any way and properly secured into the plug.
- Do not use an electric blanket and a hot water bottle at the same time.
- Always look for a British Electric Approvals Board (BEAB) approval mark when buying a blanket.
Source: South Gloucestershire Council
