Fire and Rescue services issue electric blanket warning as temperatures hit freezing
Fire and Rescue services issue electric blanket warning as temperatures hit freezing
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As the UK braces for temperatures to plummet as low as -10 in the upcoming days, Brits are gearing up for the chilly spell. The past few days have seen snow and ice wreak havoc on the roads, with January's severe weather causing disruption nationwide - and the bad news is, it's not finished yet.
While some might crank up the heating without a second thought, others will be acutely aware that the drop in temperature means donning blanket hoodies, slipping into extra-thick socks, and switching on electric blankets, all of which are more cost-effective than warming an entire house.
However, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue has taken to TikTok to caution users about the potential fire hazards of electric blankets if they're not used properly. "Electric blankets and portable heaters are a great way to keep warm on a budget," they posted, but their video also provided a checklist of what to look out for before using them. They advised: "Electric blankets are a very cost-effective way to keep warm this winter. However, it is important that we make sure that we use these correctly.".
They added: "Before use, make sure you check for any damaged cables, as this may affect the use of the blanket. Make sure it is plugged into a wall socket and not an extension cable, and you must make sure that it is unplugged and turned off before you go to bed.".
The London Fire Brigade has issued a stark warning about the safety of electric blankets, whether they're the kind you slip under your sheets to warm up the bed or the sort you drape over yourself while lounging on the sofa. This caution extends to any plug-in heating devices.
