Residents are being urged to book now for free electric blanket safety tests from the Council ready for the upcoming colder months.
This popular service, held in conjunction with the local multi-agency safety partnership Avonsafe, is one of the ways that people can protect themselves against an injury or fire in the home.
The testing will take place in early October in Bath, Keynsham, and Midsomer Norton. In addition to the electric blanket testing there will be information stalls from a range of organisations to help residents keep safe, healthy and active.
Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Now is the time to book your blanket in for a test, especially if it’s over three years old, for your own safety and peace of mind – and before the cold weather is upon us. Bath & North East Somerset Council is committed to ensuring that people feel safe within their homes, therefore it’s important to highlight the dangers of household fires.
“We want to support older people to live independently and helping them to take responsibility for their safety in their own homes is a key part of this.
“Last year Bath & North East Somerset Council held similar events and tested 95 electric blankets. Of these, 29 blankets failed the test as they were mostly blankets over 10 years old, without overheat protectors and no longer meeting current European safety standards.”
Free electric blanket testing near you
Testing days run from 9.30am to 2pm and booking is essential. To book an appointment call Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Public Protection team on 01225 396759.
- Thursday 3rd October – Weston Hall, All Saints Centre, High Street, Weston, Bath
- Friday 4th October – Institute Hall, St Philip & St James Church, 35 Frome Road, Bath
- Monday 7th October – St Francis Church Hall, Warwick Rd. Keynsham
- Tuesday 8th October – Council Chamber, The Hollies, High Street, Midsomer Norton
When should you get your electric blanket tested?
- If you have a blanket over three years old you should aim to have it tested every year.
- If the wiring in your blanket has moved.
- If the electrical connections are looking worn or damaged
- If you bought your blanket in the 1970s and 1980s – these blankets will not have an overheat safety device and will not meet current European safety standards. These blankets are at the most risk of catching fire.
Before you buy an electric blanket ensure that it carries a recognised approvals mark, such as the British Electrotechnical Approvals Board (BEAB) mark, or the International Standard number EN 60967. Buying a second hand electric blanket is dangerous as you will not be able to judge its safety.
The free test offered on electric blankets looks at electrical connections, coverings on the wires and the general state of wear. Each blanket takes about 10 minutes to check properly so it is necessary to make an appointment by calling 01225 396759.
Residents with transport may like to consider offering a lift to a relative, friend or neighbour who would otherwise find it difficult to attend the free sessions, and those without access to transport could consider using community transport schemes like Dial a Ride or Ring and Ride which provide a door-to-door service. For more information on community transport schemes, call Bath & North East Somerset Council on 01225 394041.
