25 September 2008

Free testing sessions are to be held at two fire stations in Milton Keynes to help prevent fires started by faulty electric blankets.

Trading standards officers, in partnership with Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, will be testing electric blankets for two days in October to make people aware of the risks.

Every year more than 5,000 fires across the country are started by faulty electric blankets.

The sessions will be held at Newport Pagnell Fire Station, Wolverton Road, Newport Pagnell, between 10am and 4pm on Monday 6 October, and Bletchley Fire Station, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, between 10am and 4pm on Tuesday 7 October.

Karen Ford, principal trading standards officer at Milton Keynes, said: "As the nights become cooler, more and more people will be plugging in electric blankets unaware of the potential danger they face if their blankets have not been checked.

"It is important for the public to know whether or not their electric blankets are safe and they should be checked at least once every three years."

Community safety partnership manager Christine Duncan of Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service said: "Although relatively few in number, fires in electric blankets often have tragic consequences. I would urge all people who own a blanket to take advantage of this annual testing."

To make an appointment, call 01908 252504 or email consumeradvice@milton-keynes.gov.uk

Electric blanket safety tips

• Always buy new blankets - second-hand blankets may not be safe.
  
  
• Have your blanket checked by an expert at least every three years, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure it is still safe to use.
  
  
• Always read the manufacturer's instructions carefully - and follow them.
  
  
• Never use a blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements.
  
  
• Never use the blanket if it's wet or creased. Never switch it on to dry out.
  
  
• Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together.
  
  
• Check the plug cord for any signs of wear or damage. 
  
  
• Do not fit the blanket to an adaptor or multi-socket block with another appliance plugged in.
  
  
• Make sure the power is turned off at the wall and the blanket is unplugged if not in use
  
  
• Always spread the blanket out - never use it folded.
  
  
• Keep the blanket stored carefully over the summer months - refer to the manufacturer's instructions on how best to do this.
  
  
• Most electric blankets are designed not to be washed - always check the manufacturer's instructions.