UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – UK authorities have ordered an urgent recall of electric blankets sold nationwide, citing serious risks of fire and electric shock to consumers.
According to the Office for Product Safety and norms, the mask vended by B&Q poses a fire peril since it has an electric element that can heat. This implies that it poses a significant threat of catching fire or setting near furnishings on fire.
According to the norms watchdog, there’s also a chance that the regulator will heat and melt in this situation, which could expose live corridors and affect electric shocks.
It was determined that it did n’t misbehave with the 2016 Electrical Equipment( Safety) Regulations.
The product is the Chinese- made B&Q GoodHome Saturnia Electric Blanket, which has been available for purchase since November 2024.
In order to get a complete refund, guests are encouraged to stop using the outfit right down, dissociate it from the mains, and return it to the closest B&Q store.
This winter, a lot of individuals are choosing electric blankets as an affordable means of staying warm. The gadgets provide a means of keeping a person warm without having to heat a full house, while energy bills continue to be high.
However, because of the growing use of electric blankets, a number of fire departments have already issued warnings. Guidance from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) says:
“Though electric blankets can be a great, cost-effective way to keep warm and cosy, it’s important to use them with care.”
“Before putting your electric blanket on the bed to use over the winter months, take a few minutes to check that the blanket is safe for continued use.”
The fire department advises making sure the device’s electrical components are undamaged and that the cloth is not frayed or worn.
Additionally, it cautions against using hot water bottles with electric blankets and never to use one overnight unless it is explicitly said to be safe to do so.
To assist individuals in need, a number of energy companies and towns provide free electric blankets along with items like portable heaters and hand warmers.
According to some estimates, employing an electric blanket can reduce annual energy costs by up to £300. These blankets are particularly helpful for elderly and less mobile individuals.
This winter, two significant energy companies are providing blankets: Octopus Energy and OVO.
What safety checks should be performed on electric blankets?
To insure electric mask safety, perform these routine checks before downtime use and regularly during the season, fastening on visible damage and functionality. Examine the fabric for fraying, gashes, scorch marks, abrasion, or exposed/ bulging cables that could indicate internal faults.
Unroll flat on the bed, draw in, and run on high for 10- 15 twinkles( unoccupied), also feel for hot spots, lumps, or uneven heating suggesting broken rudiments. open incontinently if irregularities appear; no way tuck edges under mattress or fold coils.
Replace robes over 10 years old( check faded BEAB mark) or after 5 times without professional testing. Avoid faves , hot water bottles, or heavy coverlets atop; always use bus shut- off models and open when not in use.