With cooler weather just around the corner, Whanganui's Fire and Emergency team is urging people to get their electric blankets tested before using them.
Fire risk management officer Jess Nesbit said people could bring their electric blankets to the Whanganui Fire Station for testing between 9am and 3pm on Thursday, April 19. The free tests are an annual event, with electricians from Laser Electrical helping Fire and Emergency staff with the testing.
"In 2017, 564 blankets were tested with a 16 per cent fail rate - 92 failed," Ms Nesbit said.
"In 2016 we tested 400 blankets with a 20 per cent fail rate."
Residents can also drop off their electric blanket before the testing day at Te Ao Hou Marae in Somme Pde, Castlecliff Community Charitable Trust in Carson St and Citizens Advice Bureau in Guyton St.
Safety tips for electric blankets
- Worn and old electric blankets can cause an electric shock, fire and possibly even death.
- At the first sign of wear, have your electric blanket tested by a qualified electrician.
- Replace your electric blanket every five years with new heat-protected models which are safer.
- Make sure the blanket is always flat on the bed and that controls and cords are not twisted or caught between the mattress and the base of the bed. Twisted cords are a common cause of electric blanket fires.
- Roll your blanket when you store it for summer. Don't fold it; you can easily damage the internal wiring by bending it sharply.
- Don't place heavy objects on the bed while the blanket is on.
- Never sleep with your electric blanket on, not even on a low setting.
- Don't leave your blanket on during the day.