With the UK set to experience temperatures as low as -10 in the coming days, people will be preparing themselves for the cold snap.
With snow and ice plaguing the roads for the past few days, this January has brought some extreme weather conditions and has caused chaos throughout the country. But it’s not over yet.
While some may whack on the heating without giving it a second thought, others will be very conscious that the colder temperatures will mean blanket hoodies will be worn, extra thick socks and electric blankets turned on – which are all much cheaper than heating your whole house.
But Staffordshire Fire and Rescue have taken to TikTok to warn users of electric blankets and how they “can become a fire risk if they’re not used correctly”.
“Electric blankets and portable heaters are a great way to keep warm on a budget,” they shared, but in their video, they gave a run-down about what you should check for before using them.
They said: “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.
“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.”
These rules apply to both electric blankets you keep under your sheet on your bed to heat your bed up and electric blankets you put over you while you’re watching TV, for example. It also goes for any heated device that you plug in at the mains.
The London Fire Brigade share that your blanket should be replaced with a new one if:
Fabric is worn or frayed.
Scorch marks are visible on the fabric
Wires are poking through the fabric.
There is damage to any part of the electrical cord.
The control buttons make a buzzing sound when switched on and/or give off a smell.
The connector fitted to the blanket is damaged or overheating.
They also urge people to follow their six top tips for safety while using an electric blanket:
Unplug blankets before you get into bed unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use.
Never use an electric blanket if you have an airflow pressure relief mattress or use emollient creams.
Never use a hot water bottle at the same time as using your electric blanket.
Do not buy second-hand electric blankets.
Remember to check regularly for wear and tear and replace at least every 10 years.
Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring.
In the comments, someone asked why you couldn’t “plug it into [the] extension cable?” Another responded: “It’s more likely to overheat than the main power socket”.