Free safety tests for electric blankets are back by
popular demand.
Last year residents missed having electric blankets checked and
called on us to bring the testing sessions back.
This year two sessions, which are organised by North Somerset
Trading Standards in partnership with Avonsafe, will be held in
Portishead and Weston-super-Mare.
Many elderly residents 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 in the UK are caused by faulty or
damaged electric blankets, and these can often be fatal.
North Somerset residents can make sure their blankets are safe
this winter by booking a 15-minute appointment at one of the
sessions. The first will run from 10am to 4pm at Somerset Hall, The
Precinct, Portishead, on Wednesday 19 November. The second is the
next day, Thursday 20 November, again from 10am to 4pm at North
Somerset Museum, Burlington Street, Weston.
Coffee and tea will be available, at a small charge,
and our Home Energy Efficiency Officer, Kim Herivel, will be
on hand while blankets are tested to give advice on how to reduce
fuel bills and make homes warmer and more energy efficient.
A member of Avon Fire and Rescue Service will also be there to
discuss other fire safety issues and arrange free Home Fire Safety
visits.
Executive member for environment, Cllr Carl Francis-Pester said:
“We would like residents to bring their blankets to be tested at
one of the two sessions to reduce the risks, especially to the
elderly, from fire caused by short circuits in old or damaged
items.
“It is also a good idea to follow some basic precautions if you
own an electric blanket, such as never using a blanket and a hot
water bottle at the same time or using the blanket if there are any
‘tell tale’ signs of damage such as scorch marks.
“We are also asking anyone who is housebound who would like an
electric blanket test to contact our Trading Standards team before
the sessions are held. We may be able to make alternative
arrangements.”
To make a booking for one of the sessions, or for more details,
contact Trading Standards on 01934 634 633.