Electric blanket roadshows to be held again at Centre

FREE 'Electric Blanket Testing' roadshows are being held across the Southern area later in the autumn.

The Banbridge venue is Banbridge Fire Station on Friday, October 15, with Laurencetown Community Centre also hosting a roadshow on Friday, November 19. Both events take place between 10am and 4pm.

The aim is to reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by faulty and misused electric blankets - each year they are responsible for 800 fires in the UK, with nearly 20 deaths and 200 injuries. Most of the casualties are people aged over 60.

Mrs Melanie McClements, assistant director for Promoting Wellbeing, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, said, “Last year 370 blankets were tested following a series of ‘Electric Blanket Testing’ roadshows.

“A total of 222 blankets, or 60 per cent, failed the safety test carried out by an electrical engineer. It is because of these shocking results that we have organised a further series of roadshows this year.

“These sessions will provide free safety checks on electric blankets and give members of the public tips on their correct use.”

Gerard Rocks, head of Health Improvement with the Trust, said injuries often occurred because people did not use or store their electric blankets properly and did not replace them or have them serviced.

“People are often unaware when blankets have become worn or damaged and it is advised that electric blankets are checked at least every three years,” he said.

Participants whose blankets fail the safety test will be given a 15 voucher towards buying a new one and will be able to ask for advice on home safety and general wellbeing issues from representatives attending the various events.

Anyone who would like to book an appointment in advance of the roadshows which are being funded through the Public Health Agency, should contact Rebekah van Scoy on (028) 38 344973.