Free electric blanket testing

Brighton & Hove City Council and East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service team up to offer free electric blanket testing, from Tuesday, September 20 to Thursday, September 22.

We may still be enjoying summer weather – but now is a good time for anyone who uses an electric blanket to plan ahead to ensure it is safe and sound to use this winter. One in four electric blankets tested in Brighton and Hove have been found to be unsafe in previous testings.

Given the high number of fires blamed on faulty blankets – 5,000 a year nationally – the council’s Trading Standards and Health & Adult Social Care teams, together with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, are offering these free tests again.

The Fire and Rescue Service recommends that all electric blankets are tested every three years and replaced every ten years.

The council is urging everyone to check for wear and tear, dampness, scorch marks and flex damage before using their blankets this year.

When buying a new blanket people are also advised to look out for the British and European standard and safety certification mark.

Last year the council and fire brigade tested hundreds of electric blankets and found that 23 per cent were unsafe.

The dates are September 20 at Hove Town Hall, September 21 at Preston Circus Fire Station and September 22 at Roedean Fire Station.

You can book an appointment by telephoning 0800 177 7069.

The Fire and Rescue Service is also offering to fit smoke alarms for free.