The Mid Sussex Wellbeing team is encouraging local people to take advantage of free electric blanket testing in East Grinstead and Haywards Heath, before the cold weather really starts to bite.
With winter fast approaching, many people will now be taking their electric blanket out of storage but residents are being urged to examine the blanket closely before switching it on.
Folding during storage can damage the wiring and cause overheating so it is important to check the fabric, electrical flex and switches for damage. Each year hundreds of house fires are accidentally caused by faulty electric blankets so it is really important that they are examined at least every three years by the manufacturer or a qualified electrician.
The Mid Sussex Wellbeing team provides free advice and guidance on all aspects of health and wellbeing. They are urging Mid Sussex residents to make sure they stay safe and well this winter by picking up the phone and booking an appointment for a free electric blanket test.
The West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is offering free electric blanket testing at Glen Vue, East Grinstead on Monday 28 October and the Redwood Centre, Haywards Heath on Friday 1 November. Appointments are available from 9.30am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm but bookings must be made in advance.
“We want people to be able to keep warm when the weather turns cold but please don’t take a risk with your safety by using an electric blanket that is damaged or unchecked,” said Councillor Snowling, Cabinet Member for Health and Community.
“Like all equipment, electric blankets need to be properly maintained and tested, so if you are planning to use one this winter then please book an appointment now for a free test.”
Although electric blankets are made to strict safety standards, any blanket which is used in the wrong way, stored incorrectly, or is more than ten years old, may be a fire risk. For peace of mind, book a safety test appointment today by calling 01243 642124.