Electric blankets

A couple on their bed

Damaged electric blankets cause more than 5‚000 house fires a year and people aged 65 or more are at greatest risk‚ with six times the national average of fatal injuries.

If you rely on an electric blanket for warmth in winter‚ make sure you are aware of the potential dangers before you plug it in.

Key safety measures

Never use the blanket if it’s wet or creased and never switch it on to dry out
Never use a blanket with scorch marks or an exposed element
Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together
Check the plug cord for any signs of wear or damage
Always buy new blanket - second hand blankets may not be safe
Have your blanket checked by an expert at least every three years‚ or as recommended by the manufacturer‚ to make sure it is still safe to use
Always read – and follow - the manufacturer’s instructions
Do not plug the blanket into an adaptor or multi-socket block with another appliance plugged in
Make sure the power is turned off at the wall and the blanket is unplugged when it is not in use
Always spread the blanket out flat - never use it folded
Store your blanket carefully when you take it off your bed - see the manufacturer's instructions on how best to do this
Most electric blankets are not designed to be washed - always check the manufacturer’s instructions