It May Be Summer time – But Now is the Time to Book Your Free Electric Blanket Test

Don't delay – Warwickshire County Council's Trading Standards Service has begun to take bookings for their free electric blanket safety tests.

The county-wide campaign, which will run for one week in October, across five venues, is open to all Warwickshire residents, aged 50 and over. Why not have your blanket tested before winter?

Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection said: “Faulty electric blankets are a serious fire hazard. Our campaign seeks to remove old and dangerous electric blankets from circulation and protect Warwickshire residents. I would strongly urge anyone aged over 50 and living in Warwickshire to take advantage of this offer and book an appointment now!"

Although electric blankets are manufactured to strict standards, wear and tear can leave them more vulnerable to developing a fault and faulty electric blankets can catch fire and cause harm.

Bookings for electric blanket tests are available by appointment only and will be taken on a first come first served basis. The number of appointments is limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Due to the expected demand for blanket tests, a limit of two blankets per person has been set.

Any Warwickshire resident aged 50 or over can book an appointment by phoning 01926 414004 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) or emailing ebtesting@warwickshire.gov.uk

Electric blanket testing will take place in Stratford-upon-Avon on Friday 7th October at Stratford Fire Station.

Trading Standards Officers are also taking advantage of the event to reach out to older people with information and advice on a range of issues appropriate to them.

The service would also like to thank Warwickshire Fire and Rescue and for their support with the use of their premises.

If you are unable to take advantage of the testing programme you can check your own blankets by looking for the following warning signs:

• the fabric is worn or frayed
• there are scorch marks anywhere
• the tie tapes are damaged or missing
• the flex is worn or damaged
• any connections are loose

Remember older blankets in regular use are much more likely to have one or more of the above faults.

For a complete guide to choosing, using, storing, and checking your electric blanket, visit our website www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards