A leading fire safety consultant has issued an urgent warning to households across the United Kingdom regarding the potential dangers of electric blankets. With cold weather persisting, many residents are turning to these cost-effective devices to stay warm while managing energy bills, but experts caution that hidden hazards could pose serious fire risks.
The Hidden Dangers in Cost-Saving Warmth
Electric blankets have become increasingly popular as energy prices remain high, with financial experts like Martin Lewis advocating for "heating the person, not the home" as an effective winter strategy. These devices typically consume less than 10p of electricity per hour, representing significant savings compared to central heating systems. However, this economic benefit comes with important safety considerations that many users overlook.
Rob Watchorn, director and fire safety consultant at The Fire Co, emphasises that while electric blankets appear to be safe and sensible solutions, they can quickly become dangerous without proper maintenance and awareness. "Many people don't realise how quickly they can become dangerous," Watchorn explains. "Damage isn't always obvious, and just because a blanket still heats up doesn't mean it's safe to use."
Critical Warning Signs Every Owner Must Recognise
Fire safety specialists identify four key warning signs that indicate an electric blanket may need immediate replacement:
- Fraying fabric around the edges or surface of the blanket
- Scorch marks or discolouration that suggests overheating
- Exposed wires that have become visible through the material
- A controller that feels hot to the touch during normal operation
Watchorn highlights that one of the most common problems is prolonged use beyond recommended lifespans. "Most manufacturers recommend replacing electric blankets after approximately ten years, but many people continue using them simply because they 'still work'. This represents a significant safety compromise that could have devastating consequences."
Essential Safety Practices and Prohibited Combinations
Beyond regular visual inspections, experts outline specific practices that can dramatically reduce fire risks. These include storing blankets flat or loosely folded to prevent internal wiring damage, unplugging devices before sleep unless specifically designed for overnight use, and avoiding certain dangerous combinations.
"You should never use an electric blanket if you have an air flow pressure relief mattress or emollient creams," Watchorn advises. "Using a hot water bottle simultaneously is also strongly discouraged, as mixing water and electricity substantially increases both electrocution and fire hazards."
The Risks of Second-Hand and Online Purchases
The fire safety consultant also warns against purchasing second-hand electric blankets, noting that while they might seem like bargains, their complete history is often impossible to verify. "We have encountered cases where even newer blankets purchased online were found to be unsafe due to faulty plugs or internal damage that wasn't immediately apparent," Watchorn reveals.
Despite improved safety features in modern electric blankets, no electrical product is completely risk-free. This reality doesn't mean abandoning these useful devices altogether, but rather approaching them with appropriate caution and regular safety checks.
Professional Testing and Replacement Guidance
For those uncertain about their electric blanket's condition, most UK councils and fire services offer professional testing schemes. These services allow qualified professionals to assess blankets thoroughly, providing peace of mind about their safety status.
Watchorn concludes with straightforward advice for concerned owners: "If you're ever unsure about the condition of your electric blanket, the safest option is always to stop using it immediately and replace it with a new, certified model. Regular checks, proper storage, and timely replacement can significantly reduce the risk of a devastating house fire."
