Electric blanket testing
| Published: 16th March 2007 21:18 |
Electric blanket testing - take a little advice from us
Lewisham residents are being urged to have their electric blankets tested before storing them away for another year.
Throughout March, Lewisham Council is providing a free and easy-to-arrange blanket-testing service to prevent the risk of fire caused by old or faulty blankets.
In the last ten years, 96 injuries and 9 deaths were caused by fires started by electric blankets in London: 3 injuries and 2 deaths were in the borough of Lewisham.
Old or damaged electric blankets lead to more than 5,000 house fires a year and older people are at greatest risk according to the UK charity, Age Concern.
Lewisham residents can bring their electric blankets to the Trading Standards Service in Catford where trained officers will inspect and test them. They will also provide advice on how to store and use them safely.
Councillor Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: 'If you've got an electric blanket then we strongly recommend you take advantage of this free service. It doesn't take long and it could help prevent a fire. Used correctly, electric blankets can be a great comfort especially to older people, but blankets need to be properly maintained and stored. It's better to be safe than sorry.'
Some electric blanket essentials:
- Have your blanket checked at least every three years.
- Look out for danger signs such as fraying fabric, scorch marks, exposed elements, wetness and loose connections.
- Store blankets flat or rolled up, never folded.
- Switch blankets off at night unless they have a working thermostat control.
- Electric blankets should carry the British Standard Kitemark and the British Electotechnical Approvals Board (BEAB), or the European safety mark.
- Never buy an electric blanket second hand.
Appointments can be made by calling 020 8314 7759 between 9.30 am-4.30 pm). Appointments are available Monday-Thursday (9.00-11.00 am & 1.00-4.00 pm).
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