Electric blankets tested at Bromsgrove safety event (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)

Electric blankets tested at Bromsgrove safety event

10:20am Tuesday 8th January 2013 in Local

TOWNSFOLK can have their electric blanket tested at an event being held in Bromsgrove this month.

The safety testing session is a joint initiative between Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) and Age UK.

The event is being held on Monday, January 28, at Amphlett Hall, Crown Close, between 10am-1pm.

Those taking along their electric blankets to be tested will be offered replacements by HWFRS for any blankets found to be defective, subject to availability.

There will also be the chance to get advice on a range of services for older people and on all aspects of fire safety, particularly the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.

Representatives from Act On Energy, LifeLine and other agencies will be attending the event.

Caroline Webster, HWFRS’ community safety advisor, said: “We’ve been working with our partners to offer free electric blanket testing across Worcestershire this winter and a significant number of the blankets tested to date have failed the safety checks.

“We would therefore urge all Bromsgrove residents to come along to check their own electric blankets are safe to use.”

Users unable to attend are being encouraged to inspect their blankets, and to stop using them if they notice signs of wear and tear, particularly worn leads, scorch marks or creasing and folding.

A free blanket test can also be booked by calling 01562 512612.