Portsmouth City Council City Crest

September news

Take the shock out of faulty blankets

Electric blanket Portsmouth City Council is offering free electric blanket safety checks at the start of October.

All residents have to do is call 023 9283 4689 to make a free appointment for an expert check at one of the following sessions:

  • 2 October - 9.30 am to 3 pm at The Salvation Army Hall, Albert Road, Southsea
  • 3 October - 9.30 am to 5 pm at Cosham Fire Station.

Many problems can be due to the age of the blanket and it is recommended that they are changed at least every 10 years. Common faults include no overheat protection, bonding failure and exposed wires.

The free specialist checks are in-depth and pick up problems which a normal electrical repairer or electrician may miss. Electric blanket manufacturers offer a similar service but usually charge £10-15.

Signs that you need a check include age, (anything over 10 years old), breaks in the cable, faulty controllers and bonding failure (two sides of the blanket becoming separated).

Robert Briggs, Portsmouth City Council's Trading Standards Manager, said: "Anyone with an electric blanket should call 9283 4689 for a free expert safety check.

"Last year we held a similar event and out of the 130 blankets we checked 30% failed. Faulty electric blankets are a real danger so book an appointment and make sure you are safe this winter."

Electric blanket checks are very popular so are strictly by appointment only.

Date : 30 September 2008