Firefighters in Burnham-On-Sea are to hold free electric blanket testing sessions for residents in an effort to reduce accidental fires.
Residents can take their electric blankets to Burnham-On-Sea Fire Station on Wednesday 15th December to have their blankets tested.
Community Safety Officer Carol Frances said: “In previous years, 40% of all blankets we have tested have failed the checks. Faulty electric blankets can cause serious fires, but these can be prevented by taking the right precautions and having them tested.”
“I would urge residents to get their blankets tested now that the colder weather has arrived. Anyone is welcome to book an appointment and bring their electric blanket or perhaps one on behalf of someone else, to one of our sessions.”
He urged residents to get their blanket checked if it displays the Kite Mark, which mans it is more than 15 years old. Blankets should display the BEAB logo to show that it complies with the latest safety standards.
Warning signs with dangerous electric blankets include the fabric being worn or frayed, scorch marks, tie tapes being damaged or missing, the flex being worn or damaged, the connections being loose, the plug or mains lead being damaged, or if it has not been examined by an expert in the last three years.
Please call 01823 365365 to book an appointment at your nearest location.
