Test your blanket before getting snug

Saturday 12 October 2019

With winter approaching, islanders might be tempted to dig their electric blankets out of the cupboards - but before they do, they're being urged to test them to avoid fires.

Jersey Fire and Rescue Service (JFRS) will be supporting Jersey Electricity’s (JEC) Annual Electric Blanket Safety Test at the Western Fire Station, St. Brelade, next week on Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 October.

Anyone who has an electric blanket is invited to take advantage of the free tests, which will be conducted by JEC’s electrical engineers, to ensure blankets are safe to use.

Pictured: The tests will take place at the Western Fire Station on La Route Des Quennevais.

Islanders simply have to take their blanket to the Western Fire Station between 9:00 and 15:00.

Most blankets will be able to be tested on the spot, but islanders will be advised if that cannot be done and will provide a time for collection.

If a blanket fails the safety test, engineers will dispose of it and its owner will receive in return a 10% discount voucher, which can be redeemed against the purchase of a new one at the Powerhouse.

Pictured: The tests are aimed at reducing the amount of potential fires due to electrical faults.

“The Jersey Fire and Rescue Service recommend that electric blankets should be serviced once a year and that all items over 10 years old should be replaced," Watch Commander, Mark Bailey-Walker commented.

"Electric blankets should also conform to the British Standard and carry the new style kite mark or current European Standard mark.” 

Did you know that 36% of all #fires in the home in Jersey are caused by cooking accidents.

As part of Home Safety Week we have produced some advice on how you and your family can stay safe in the kitchen and prevent fires from occurring. #SafeHome19 #FireSafety pic.twitter.com/zLG5B4PYRG

— Jersey Fire & Rescue (@JsyFire) 30 September 2019

Blankets that are over 10 years old can not be tested, but can be returned in exchange of a discount voucher.<

A Community Fire Safety Officer will also be on hand throughout the testing periods to offer advice on fire safety in the home.

Follow this advice to use your blanket safely...

• Electric blankets should be kept dry and stored flat or rolled. Folding and creasing can damage the internal wiring which may cause overheating. A handy place to store your electric blanket is under your mattress, as it will stay flat.

•  When the blanket is on the bed ensure that both the lead and the switch/heat control hang freely. The electric flex must not be twisted, coiled or laid across the blanket or tucked under the mattress or covers.

• Electric under blankets should be tied to the mattress, while ensuring the head of the blanket is not placed at the foot of the bed. The blanket must be switched off with the thermostatic control before the person gets into bed and unplugged if it does not have a thermostatic control. 

• Never use a blanket which has scorch marks or exposed elements or is soiled.

• Check the blanket, flex and plug regularly for detached tie strings, frayed edges, damaged insulation and loose electrical connections. 

• If the blanket has become wet it must be dried thoroughly before it is switched on again. Never switch the blanket to dry it.

• Never use an under blanket over a person or an over blanket under a person.

• Never use more electric blankets on top of each other.

• Always buy new Electric Blankets. Do not buy second-hand Blankets as they may not be safe to use.

• Do not use a hot water bottle with an Electric Blanket.