Electric blankets

Electric blankets cause hundreds of fires every year. Please follow the following safety advice if you or someone you care for owns an electric blanket.

Choosing a blanket 

• Only buy your electric blanket from a reliable source 
• Never buy second hand electric blankets 
• Check that it has a UK safety mark 

Storing your blanket 

• Blankets can be kept on your bed year-round even when not in use 
• If you can, store it flat on a spare bed 
• If you can't keep it flat, loosely roll it up or gently fold it so to prevent damaging the internal wiring 
• Never store heavy items on your blanket  

Using your blanket 

• Check the manufacturer's instructions before use 
• Never use an electric underblanket as an overblanket (or vice versa) 
• Never use a hot water bottle at the same time as an electric blanket 
• Never use pins to hold the blanket in place on your bed 
• Never use an electric blanket if you have an air flow pressure relief mattress, or use emollient creams 

Check your blanket 

Regularly check your blanket for wear or damage including: 

• If the fabric is worn or frayed 
• If scorch marks are visible on the fabric 
• If wires are poking through the fabric 
• If there is damage to any part of the electrical cord 
• If the control buttons are making a buzzing sound when switched on and/or is giving off a smell 
• If the connector fitted to the blanket is damaged or over-heating 

If in doubt, throw it out!  

Electric blankets should be replaced every 10 years or sooner if showing any signs of wear or issues.