DERBYSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service have joined forces with other local agencies in a bid to pull the plug on unsafe electric blankets this winter.

Derby Homes and Walbrook Group offices and Age Concern have agreed to be drop off points for people who would like to get their electric blankets checked for safety before the on-set of winter nights.

The free safety check campaign will begin this weekend, on Saturday 24 September, and end on 12 October.

Sue Noakes, who is the Community Safety Officer at Nottingham Road fire station, said: “We have produced leaflets telling people about the campaign which will be distributed throughout the city of Derby.  Copies of this will also be put on our web site at www.derbys-fire.gov.uk  It is a fact that older people are six times more likely than anyone else to die in a house fire caused by a faulty electric blanket.

“To help Derby people sleep safely in their homes, Derby Homes and other local partners are offering free electric blanket safety checks.  From 24 September, people are being asked to drop off their electric blanket at any Derby based fire station, ie Ascot Drive, Kingsway, Nottingham Road, housing office or Age Concern shops in Littleover, Allenton or the Moreledge. The blankets will then be tested free of charge by an authorised electrical engineer and minor repairs carried out once again free of charge.  Those which are considered dangerous will be disposed of safely.  Safe electric blankets will be available for collection, or returned to owners by 12 October in time for the colder nights.  We can also arrange home collections for those with mobility problems.”

Follow these simple tips below to keep safe:

• Always buy new electric blankets, second hand ones may not be safe
• Have your blanket checked by an expert every year
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Never use an electric blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements
• Regularly check for signs of damage
• Check the plug for signs of wear
• Do not plug into an overloaded socket
• Never use a wet or creased electric blanket
• Never use a hot water bottle when you already use an electric blanket
• Unplug it when it is not being used
• Never use it folded
• Store it properly during the summer months – follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Most electric blankets should not be washed