ALMOST HALF OF ELECTRIC BLANKETS FAIL SAFETY TEST
ALMOST HALF OF ELECTRIC BLANKETS FAIL SAFETY TEST
Posted: October 19, 2011
Nearly half of electric blankets recently tested by Cumbria County Council were faulty.
Safety events were held by the fire service in Barrow, Kendal, Ulverston and Grange a fortnight ago.
47% had a problem, which could have proven fatal.
Fire chiefs tell us the blankets need regular checks and should definately be replaced if over 10 years old.
Cumbria County Councillor Gary Strong, cabinet member for community safety and local services, said: “It is very pleasing that so many residents have once again taken the opportunity to have free electric blanket safety checks following last winter’s severe cold spells, when electric blankets were an essential means of keeping warm for many people.
“Many people can now sleep safely in the knowledge that their blankets are safe or that the replacement blankets provided meet important safety standards”.
Angela Jones, Trading Standards Service Manager, said: “These checks have once again proved very important. Regrettably, a large number of people are reluctant to replace old, worn out equipment. Many of the failed blankets were in urgent need of replacement due to their age. Some of the blankets examined were manufactured during the 60’s when technology was not as good and safety standards were less stringent.
“Blankets need testing on a regular basis and replacing once they are over 10 years of age.
“If you have an elderly relative or friend who uses an electric blanket, I would urge that you check their blanket for signs of fraying fabric, burn marks, exposed elements or damaged controls. If the blanket shows any of these signs, please get it tested or replaced”.
