South Ayrshire Council News

This year the weather will no doubt have electric blankets pulled from the back of the cupboard even earlier than normal, but South Ayrshire Council Trading Standards officials are urging people to think about their safety and take advantage of a FREE electric blanket safety check.

After ten years this successful safety initiative is still going strong, protecting consumers in South Ayrshire. Checks from previous years showed that up to 75% of the blankets tested were found to have poor wiring and electrical faults, some being potentially lethal.

National fire statistics show that around 1000 fires each year are caused by faulty electric blankets, with blankets over 10 years old posing a particular danger. In general, it is recommended that blankets are checked at least every 3 years and not used if there is any doubt about the safety of the blanket (especially if it is scorched, frayed, soiled, worn, or creased).

As a result, drop off points for the annual free safety checks have been arranged throughout South Ayrshire for Friday 14th September between 10am and 3pm, and Monday 17th September between 10am and 1pm, when electric blankets can be dropped off at the Trading Standards Advice Centre, 5-7 River Terrace, Ayr.

Alternative drop off points have been put in place at the Council Housing Offices at: 2-6 The Cross, Prestwick, Municipal Buildings, South Beach, Troon, 64 High Street, Maybole and 19 Knockcushan Street, Girvan.

The blankets will then be tested at the Trading Standards testing facility and the owners will be advised of the safety of their blanket and any faults found. If the blanket is found to be unsafe, a discount voucher will be provided courtesy of one of the large blanket manufacturers, IMETEC. The voucher will help towards the cost of a new electric blanket

Councillor Peter Convery, responsible for Trading Standards issues said, “This is a valuable service that is provided free to ensure the safety of residents of South Ayrshire. The check brings peace of mind particularly for the elderly and I would urge people to take advantage of this opportunity to have their blanket tested for free.”

If anyone has concerns regarding any safety issues or wishes further information to contact South Ayrshire Trading Standards at 5-7 River Terrace, Ayr. Tel: 01292 61 60 60.