15% of electric blankets tested within Bath and North East Somerset have failed a safety test, B&NES Council has revealed, following free blanket testing over the past two months.
During September and October the Council’s Trading Standards team carried out free electric blanket safety tests in Midsomer Norton, Keynsham and Larkhall in Bath.
A total of 120 electric blankets were tested and of these 18 failed the test.
Bath & North East Somerset Council offers the service annually to help people protect themselves against an injury or fire in the home.
The testing sessions also involved other local organisations and Council teams committed to keeping residents keep safe, healthy and active – Age UK B&NES, WE Care and Repair, Somerset Care and Repair, the Council’s Food Safety team and Energy at Home.
Cllr Vic Pritchard (Conservative, Chew valley South), Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, said : “Electric blankets over three years old should be tested every year.
“All blankets should be tested if the wiring within them has moved or if the electrical connections look worn or damaged.
“We want people to be safe in their homes and I urge anyone who uses an electric blanket to get it tested using our free service.”
For further safety advice in relation to electric blankets, click on the following link http://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/trading-standards/consumer-advice/electric-blanket-testing or call Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Public Protection & Health Improvement team on 01225 396759.