Electric blanket testing offered in Jersey

Islanders are being urged to get their electric blankets safety tested.

The free tests are part of a drive by the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service and Jersey Electricity to reduce the risk of fires caused by electrical fault.

This year's annual electric blanket safety testing is at the Western Fire Station in St Brelade on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 October.

A community fire safety officer will be at the venue to offer advice on fire safety in the home.

If a blanket fails the safety test, it will be disposed of and the owner given a discount voucher for a new one.

Phil Falle, community fire safety officer, said: "Electric blankets should conform to the British Standard and carry the new style kite mark or current European Standard mark; this will be shown on the label or the flex.

"They should be serviced once a year or in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions."
(from BBC)