Bracknell

Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s trading standards, Thames Valley Police and the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service are jointly holding a free two-day electric blanket safety test and home safety advice event.

While the blankets are being tested, there is the opportunity to meet with a police crime reduction adviser, and visit the home fire risk van for fire safety advice.

The free testing is taking place on October 19 and 20 and is by appointment only.

Rob Sexton, Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s Head of Trading Standards and Services, said: "Electric blankets can pose a very real and serious risk of fire, which increases as they age. Past failure rates have been in excess of 50 per cent which highlights the importance of these events.”

Cllr Peter North, Executive Member for Public Protection and Services, said: "Everything wears out over time and this is also true for electric blankets. A worn out blanket is dangerous. If in doubt either don’t use it or have it tested before the cold weather arrives so you can sleep safely.

"If you cannot get to this free event in person, ask a friend to go for you.”

Anyone who would like an appointment for a free expert check of their electric blanket or have other questions should call 01344 352583.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council