Free electric blanket tests offered by fire service (From Wiltshire Times)

Free electric blanket tests offered by fire service

3:02pm Tuesday 2nd October 2012 in Latest News

With the winter months on their way Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service are offering free electric blanket testing sessions.

The sessions will take place at fire stations in Trowbridge on October 16, Devizes on October 17, Corsham on October 23 and Salisbury on October 24, between 9.30am-4.30pm.

Council trading standards manager Yvonne Bennett said: “Many elderly people rely on electric blankets for extra warmth in winter but are often unaware of the dangers of using old or damaged blankets.

“More than 1,000 fires a year are caused in the UK by damaged or faulty blankets. We hope people will make appointments to use this free service to make sure they can keep safe this winter.”

Fire service watch manager Neil Chamberlain said: “Electric blankets are perfectly safe as long as they are looked after and checked regularly.

“You should always look for scorch marks, or worn/frayed cloth, as these are danger signs. The flex should also be checked, to make sure it is undamaged and properly connected.

“Making an appointment for one of these free sessions will give peace of mind.”

To book for a session contact the council’s consumer protection team on 01225 713248 or email tradingstandards@wiltshire.gov.uk.