Testing Electric Blanket

Electric Blanket Safety

Each year there are about 1000 fires caused by faulty electric blankets. Around 20 people are killed and 250 injured in these fires. Elderly people are particularly vulnerable. Recent checks have found that 40% of blankets being used by the public are unsafe.

There are several things that you can do to protect yourself.

Before you buy an electric blanket:

Ensure that it carries a recognised approvals mark, such as the British Electrotechnical Approvals Board (BEAB) mark, or the International Standard number BSEN 60335.

  • It is not advisable to buy or use a second hand electric blanket. You will not know its history and are unlikely to be able to judge its safety.

Before using your electric blanket make sure:

You read the instructions provided, keep them safe for future reference and use the blanket correctly.

  • The blanket is not scorched, soiled or wet.

  • You do not position electric underblankets on top of the bed covers (ie. above the occupant of the bed).

  • 99% of blankets fires are believed to have involved blankets that are more than 10 years old - in particular those without overheat protectors. You are strongly advised to take such blankets out of use.

When using your electric blanket make sure that:

It is laid flat on the bed as folds or creases can damage the internal wiring and cause overheating.

  • With underblankets the lead and controller switch are hanging freely and not caught up in the blanket or damaged in any way underblankets are securely tied to the bed if tie tapes are supplied.

  • The blanket is switched off or unplugged before you get into bed if it is marked as a pre-heating underblanket.

Looking after your electric blanket

Have your blanket inspected by the manufacturer or qualified electrician in accordance with their instructions. They usually recommend inspections every three years.

  • Only wash or clean your blanket in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Check the blanket frequently for detached tie tapes, frayed edges, scorch marks and loose electrical connections.

  • Phone the manufacturer to see if they carry out tests, and how much a test would cost, it is sometimes cheaper to buy a replacement periodically.

  • Sometimes your local Fire Brigade or Trading Standards Service may organise checks in your area, watch the press or check their web sites for details.

Storing your electric blanket

When you are not using your blanket:

  • Leave it on the bed or roll it or fold it loosely to avoid creases as far as possible; under blankets may be left tied to the bed all year round.

  • Avoid storing other objects on top of your blanket.

  • Keep it in a dry place.

Remember

There are different types of electric blankets including underblankets and overblankets, pre-heating blankets and all-night blankets. Check the user instructions carefully.

Pre-heating blankets are designed to pre-heat the bed and must be switched off or disconnected whilst the bed is occupied.

All-night blankets have controls that allow safe all-night use.

Could you do a visual examination for an elderly relative or neighbour or arrange for it to be inspected?.

Smoke alarms

A smoke alarm can give you those precious few minutes of warning which could help you and your family to get out safely in the event of fire.

Smoke alarms cost around £5 and are simple to install. They are widely available from DIY, hardware and electrical shops. Choose an alarm which meets British Standards BS 5446 Part 1 and carries the Kitemark.

Follow the manufacturers instructions on positioning, fitting and battery replacement.

Visit www.avonfire.gov.uk for advice on smoke detectors

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