A joint safety campaign, run by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards service and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been hailed a success.
Since the testing of electric blankets began in 2008, failure rates have risen from 40% to 60%. The campaign, which is largely aimed at older people, aims to reduce the number of injuries and deaths from house fires caused by unsafe blankets by offering free tests.
New electric blankets must meet strict safety standards when they are sold, but over time they can become damaged and suffer from wear and tear.
Council Leader Ali Thomas said, “The success of these campaigns grows every year. As people become more aware of the hazards associated with electric blankets we have seen an increase in the number of blankets being examined.”
“With the nights getting colder, it is more important than ever to have the peace of mind that people are staying safe at home.”
Assistant County Commander Simon Jenkins of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said, “Residents should get their electric blankets examined regularly to avoid potential life threatening faults. Even if blankets appear safe there may be problems that are not easily visible.
He added, “Whilst electric blankets have been around for many years, they can still be dangerous if misused or not cared for properly. One of the most common dangers with an electric blanket is bunching, or overlapping the blanket with several folds which can lead to overheating. Always keep an electric blanket flat and even, turn the blanket off when it’s not needed, or buy one with an automatic shut-off timer”.
