Shropshire householders are being urged to get their electric blankets tested for free by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of an annual autumn fire prevention campaign.
Almost one third of electric blankets were condemned as a dangerous fire safety risk after they failed the same test last year, revealed the brigade’s Community Fire Safety team.
They have linked up with Shrewsbury’s RMW Electrical to offer free tests at fire stations in Oswestry, Church Stretton and Craven Arms and at the Lantern Community Building in Meadow Farm Drive, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, between October 2 and 4.
But anyone taking up the offer must call the fire safety team on 01743 260260 on the week of September 23 to 27 to book a time slot for the blanket test, said team member Alison Teece.
People unable to bring their blanket to the fire station should carry out their own safety checks, she urged.
Check regularly for scorch marks or visual signs of damage, don’t fold but roll it, and never buy or use a second hand blanket. Don’t use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket and always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
“More importantly, make sure you have working smoke alarms on each level of your home, added Alison.
Anyone who would like more information can call Alison Teece at the Community Fire Safety department at Shrewsbury Fire HQ’s on 01743 260 258.
