East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) are encouraging residents to put dates in their diaries for this year’s electric blanket and heat pad testing events.

Last year over a third of electric blanket tested by ESFRS failed the safety tests. These failures could have led to fires and serious injury. 

Home Office statistics indicate electric blankets cause around 44 fires in the UK each year and are predominantly used by older and sometimes less mobile people.

At the free testing events people are offered a free home safety visit and project partners will also be in attendance to discuss issues around scams, security, housing issues and the warm home check scheme.

Last year over a third of electric blanket tested by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service failed the safety tests. Picture contributed

placeholder image — Last year over a third of electric blanket tested by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service failed the safety tests. Picture contributed

ESFRS understand that not everyone can get to the testing sessions, so the fire service are encouraging friends and neighbours to ask if blanket users would like them to take the blanket/heat pad on their behalf to the nearest testing venue.

By raising awareness and actively engaging with the public, ESFRS aim to reduce the risk associated with electric blanket and heat pad usage and promote overall fire safety in the home.

Members of the public praised the initiative with comments including: “We had a small fire in our house attended by Crowborough crews. It has made me more anxious about fire, so I am glad to have had my blanket tested and have had a home safety visit. I now feel a bit safer.’

“I didn’t realise there was anything wrong with my blanket, but the tester showed me the bunched-up wires that could have caused a fire. Without this service I would have continued to use my faulty blanket’.

“I have nearly fallen for scams in the past so it was useful talking to the advisor about how to identify what could be a scam. Lots of useful information.

“My blanket failed, but I’m happy to be safe rather than have a fire.”

For event details and safety advice visit: https://www.esfrs.org/electric-blankets.

Electric blanket safety tips 

With the colder months ahead, here are some simple tips to stay safe:

Regular inspections – examine your electric blanket or heat pad for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage before use. 
Follow manufacturer instructions – adhere to the manufacturer's instructions regarding usage, washing, and storage. 
Avoid overheating – never leave an electric blanket or heat pad turned on for an extended period and switch it off before getting into bed. 
No pets or heavy objects – keep pets and heavy objects off the electric blanket or heat pad to prevent damage. 
Replace old blankets – if your electric blanket or heat pad is more than ten years old or shows signs of wear, consider replacing it with a newer model.

Home safety visits 

If you have any questions about fire safety in the home, ESFRS offer a free home safety check service. If you would like to find out more and see if you are eligible you can: