Electric blankets - free tests in Ballymena

The aim of this event is to promote awareness of the dangers of electric blankets and improve safety in the home.

Electric blankets cause between 800 and 1000 fires in the UK each year, with nearly 20 deaths and 200 injuries. Recent checks on electric blankets throughout the province have shown that nearly 70 per cent fail safety standards and could lead to fires.

The Electrical Safety Council recommends that electric blankets are tested every three years and replaced every ten years.

The main target of this event is older people, some of whom use electric blankets as a cheap source of heating. We would therefore encourage older people to avail of this opportunity of free electric blanket checks.

All members of the public are invited to bring along their electric blankets to the event for testing. A replacement blanket will be provided to those persons whose blankets fail the test.

The event will be held in the Interview Room of Seven Towers Leisure Centre, 9 Trostan Avenue, Ballymena from 10am to 4:30pm. Appointments must be made in advance. To arrange an appointment contact Shauna Lagan on 028 2566 0394.

Follow these simple rules to help keep you safe while keeping warm this winter:

Always buy new – second hand electric blankets may not be safe

To ensure your electric blanket is still safe to use, have it checked by an expert at least every three years – or as recommended by the manufacturer

If an electric blanket is more than 10 years old, consider throwing it away and buy a new one

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow them

Never use an electric blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements

Never use an electric blanket if it is wet or creased and do not switch it on to dry it out

Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together in the same bed

Check the plug and cord for any signs of wear or damage

Make sure the power is turned off at the wall and the electric blanket is unplugged if not in use

Never use the electric blanket folded – always spread it out fully

Keep the electric blanket stored carefully over the summer months – refer to the manufacturer’s instructions

Some electric blankets are designed not to be washed – always check the manufacturer’s instruction