Free Electric Blanket Safety Tests 2014

Bed FireIn an article on their website Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service are advising everyone to check the safety of their electric blankets before switching them on as winter approaches. For those who would prefer the check to be done by an experienced person they are arranging free safety checks at three fire stations across the county. The closest to Hodnet is in Market Drayton on Wednesday Oct. 1st 2014.
It is important to note that whilst the safety checks are free they do need to be booked in advance. Appointments can be booked by phone from this Monday (22nd Sept.) by calling 01743 260200. SFRS is encouraging people to book as soon as possible in order avoid disappointment please as there are only limited places available.
Fire Safety Officer Alison Teece advises, “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.” She also says that a quarter of electric blankets were condemned as a dangerous fire safety risk after they failed the same test last year.
If you know any senior citizens who may not be aware of the availability of these free safety checks and who use an electric blanket, please mention them to them and make sure they have the contact number – perhaps you might also offer to take the blanket to the fire station to be checked.
SFRS advise that those unable to bring their blankets to the fire station should carry out their own safety checks. They provide the following guidelines:

  • Check regularly for scorch marks or visual signs of damage.
  • Don’t fold but roll an electric blanket.
  • Never buy or use a second hand one.
  • Don’t use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket
  • 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 Community Fire Safety department at Shrewsbury Fire HQ’s on 01743 260258.