More than half of 100 electric blankets tested at a recent fire safety event in Swansea were at risk of causing fires in homes.
Trading Standards in Swansea and fire safety officers tested the electric blankets during a special event in the Grand Theatre and 54 of the tested blankets failed important safety standards that ensure the items are safe for use in the home.
Some were very old, frayed and had faulty switches- all defects that could lead to them catching fire and causing injury.
Another free event has now been organised at Hazel Court in Sketty on Friday November 26 and residents are being encouraged to attend the event with their electric blankets and get them tested for free.
John Hague, Cabinet Member for the Environment in Swansea Council, said: “The recent event has illustrated the need for people to get their blankets checked before switching them on again this winter.
“While it’s a great benefit to have heating at the touch of a button, electric blankets are known to cause significant fires in the home. These vital checks can potentially save lives.”
Hayley Walder of Swansea Trading Standards said that if a blanket fails the test the owner will get a new blanket free of charge if they consent to a home fire safety check by the fire service as well.
She said: “Now is the time of year when the nights get a little colder and people dig out their electric blankets from the cupboard. We just want to help people ensure they’re in tip top condition and not a risk so people can sleep safe and sound at night.
“If our tests show the blanket is a risk, owners can either purchase a new one themselves or the Mid and West Wales Fire Service will provide one for free if the owner doesn’t mind the service doing a full fire risk safety check of their home.”
