Electric Blankets
If you are relying on your electric blanket for warmth this winter‚ make sure you are aware of the potential dangers of simply plugging it in. Don’t risk a fire, be careful old or damaged electric blankets cause more than 5‚000 house fires a year and older people aged 65 years or more are at greatest risk‚ with six times the national average of fatal injuries.
Checking Your Electric Blanket
Electric blankets should be checked by a qualified technician every three years for signs of wear or damage, or as recommended by the manufacturer‚ to ensure it is still safe to use. Have your blanket checked if it shows any of the following danger signs:
- Check the plug cord for any signs of wear or damage
- Exposed wires
- Fraying fabric
- Loose connections
- Folded and creased
- Scorch marks
- Damp
- Wet
- Soiled
- Damaged temperature control
Blanket Safety
- Always follow the manufactures instructions
- Keep blankets flat at all times
- Never try to wash a blanket, unless the manufactures instructions say it’s say to do so
- Never use the blanket if it is wet and never plug it in to dry it
- Make sure the power is turned off at the wall if not in use
- Never leave the blanket on all night unless it has a thermostatic control for safe all night use
- Never use a electric under blanket as an over blanket and vice versa
- Do not fold your blanket, try to roll it for storage
Buy a New Blanket
If you are unsure about the condition of the blanket or it is more than 10 years old buy a new one. Do not buy secondhand! Remember it’s easier to replace a blanket than it is to replace your family or home.
