Bracknell

Bracknell Residents are being warned to take care while using their electric blankets this winter.

In a recent electric blanket test run by Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s trading standards team, 71 blankets were tested, and 40 passed with no faults. Six were found to have minor faults and were repaired free of charge, while 25 blankets were found to have major faults and were condemned. One of the blankets tested was more than 50 years old.

Nationally, there are about 1,000 fires every year which are caused by electric blankets, leading to about 20 deaths and 250 injuries.

Electric blankets should be laid flat, securely tied to the bed, with leads and control switches hanging freely and not scorched or wet or tangled in blankets or sheets.

Additionally, the blankets should be regularly checked to make sure there are no frayed edges or loose electrical connections. They should also be stored according to the manufacturers instructions. Please make sure blankets made to only pre-warm the bed are switched off and unplugged before getting in.

Electric blankets should be tested at least every three years by a qualified electrician. It may be worth asking the manufacturer if they test the blankets and how much it would cost.

Cllr Peter North, Executive Member for Bracknell Public Protection and Services, said: "This message is aimed at saving lives. The recent testing has proven that a lot of people have blankets that are dangerous or need replacing. If in doubt, either don’t use them or get them tested.

”If you know someone who uses an electric blanket, even occasionally, but who may not have seen this message, please talk to them. If you can help them to get their blanket safety checked, we can all sleep a little more safely this winter.”

For consumer advice, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/tradingstandards or call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council