A SPIKE in electric blanket fires has renewed fears that high energy bills and cold weather could lead to more house blazes this winter.
Fires caused by electric blankets increased by 38% last year, according to new research by Electrical Safety First.
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Analysis by the charity showed that 29 accidental electric blanket fires occurred in the year 2022/2023, up from 21 in 2021/22.
And more than one in three of these fires resulted in either a casualty or fatality.
Around 82% of the 29 electric blanket fires recorded in the latest year were linked to faults, raising concerns that older blankets may be going unchecked after years of use.
Luke Osborne, deputy technical director at Electrical Safety First, said: “Wires inside the device are prone to fraying or breaking after years of being folded and stored away which can risk the buildup of heat.
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“With energy bills still sky high for many, and sub-zero temperatures gripping the country, many are seeking to heat the body rather than the home, meaning more of these devices are likely to be in use.
“They can be great ways to stay warm but if they are not used correctly or not checked for some time the fires they cause can be utterly devastating.”
Electrical Safety First advises owners of electric blankets that are 10 years old to consider replacing their devices.
The charity has also warned households that use portable heaters to be aware of the fire risks from leaving their devices on overnight or positioned too close to furniture or fabrics.
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Previous research by Electrical Safety First in the winter of 2022 showed an eight per cent increase year-on-year in those planning to use electric heaters last winter to heat a single room in their home.
That is the equivalent of 4.3million people across the UK.
We’ve explained how to use your heating appliances and gadgets safely below.
How do I use electric blankets safely?
Those with the handy heating gadget should always roll their blanket as opposed to folding it.
This is because folding can weaken the wiring in the blanket over time.
If you don’t have the space to store the blanket, it can be left on your bed all year round, according to Electrical Safety First.
Using your electric blanket with an extension lead is a major no-no.
This is because it increases the risk of overloading the circuit and this could cause an electrical fire.
Only plug your heated blanket into a mains plug socket.
It’s recommended that you do not sleep with an electric blanket on.
If it is left turned on for a long amount of time, the blanket may overheat and cause severe burns.
Electric blankets are designed only to pre-warm your bed.
The blankets and pillows that you have on your bed will help to capture the heat and keep you warm all night.
That way, you won’t end up getting easily cold throughout the night when you’re asleep.
It is common knowledge that water and electricity are a deadly mix.
That’s why it’s imperative to keep your hot water bottle as far away from your electric blanket as possible.
And if you spill a drink or any water on the gadget switch it off and unplug it from the mains immediately.
Electrical Safety First recommends that shoppers stick to British high street stores or go directly to their trusted online websites to ensure that the products they buy are safe.
How do I use portable heaters safely?
Put your heater on a level surface, well away from anything or anyone that could knock it over whenever it’s in use.
You should also always make sure your heater is at least well away from combustible materials, such as paper, furniture or curtains.
And never use it to dry your clothes.
Don’t leave your heater unattended for long periods whilst in use or while you are asleep.
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Like with other heating gadgets, you shouldn’t power a heater from an extension lead – they can easily be overloaded and cause fires.
As always, ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every floor in your home and test them regularly.
