Warning over electric blankets ahead of winter

Four out of every ten electric blankets tested by firefighters were deemed unsafe

People are being urged to check if their electric blankets are safe ahead of winter.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is holding a series of free electric blanket testing sessions across the county in October.

WSFRS said faulty electric blankets are a common cause of house fires.

Nearly 40% of the blankets it tested last year were defective and posed a serious fire risk.

'Peace of mind'

Samantha Barber, from WSFRS, said: “We know lots of people will be planning to use their electric blankets to keep warm this winter, particularly as the cost of living remains high.

“We would encourage residents to come and have their blankets tested to ensure they have peace of mind that their blanket is still safe to use."

Ms Barber said a limited number of free replacements will be given to those with blankets found to be faulty.

Testing appointments can be booked in Bognor Regis, Worthing, Petworth, East Grinstead, Burgess Hill, Horsham and Haywards Heath.

Regular testing is recommended for blankets over two years old to ensure they are safe.

Blankets over ten years old should be replaced, according to WSFRS.

More information is available here.