Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Redruth at 15/11/2003 12:26

Appliances from Redruth and Camborne were mobilised to this incident, which was on the first floor bedroom, firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hosereel to extinguish the fire, which was caused by an electric blanket.

Electrical Blankets - Fire Safety
Cause 19 deaths a year (1999 figures)

If they are over 10 years old or the fabric or flex is worn, they should be replaced, if less, they should be tested to the manufacturers instructions.
Store them flat, folding or creasing can damage the internal wiring and cause overheating.
Never use a blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements.
Check the blanket for detached tie strings, frayed edges damaged insulation and loose electrical connections.
If the blanket gets wet it must be dried thoroughly before being used again.
Make sure blankets conform to BS and are fitted with an overheat protector.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire/fsafety/fs01s.htm