Free Electric Mattress Blanket Safety Checks Return To Worksop

Nottinghamshire residents are being urged to take advantage of free electric mattress blanket checks as the county council’s Trading Standards Team and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service return to Worksop Library on 16 March between 9.30am and 4pm. With 80 appointment slots up for grabs, it’s a valuable opportunity for residents to ensure their much-loved blankets are not posing an unseen risk.

Anyone in the county can bring in their electric mattress blanket and thanks to funding from Electrical Safety First, any that fails will be replaced free of charge with a brand-new one. For safety reasons, failed mattress blankets will not be handed back to their owners.

Last year’s tests revealed some alarming statistics—nearly two-thirds of blankets failed safety checks, with some discovered to be several decades old. 

The trading standards team strongly advises residents to be particularly cautious of blankets showing signs such as scorch marks, frayed fabric, exposed heating elements, dampness, loose connections, damaged or missing tie tapes, or excessive creasing and folding. However, even in the absence of these warning signs, it is recommended that electric blankets be replaced every ten years to maintain safety. Tragically, the county has experienced two fatalities in recent years connected to unsafe electric mattress blankets, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of these checks.

To secure your spot for a free electric mattress blanket safety check, be sure to book in advance by calling the council on 0115 8044555 as testing is by appointment only. 

Councillor Dawn Justice, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to have your electric mattress blanket checked, particularly if it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear. Please don’t put your safety, or that of your family, at risk. If you’ve got friends, relatives or neighbours who might be elderly or more vulnerable, please encourage them to get their blankets tested too. And, if you’re thinking about getting a new electric blanket, it’s best to avoid second-hand ones—you just can’t be sure they’re safe. For total peace of mind, always pick blankets that meet British or European standards and have a recognised safety mark.”

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Engagement and Partnerships Manager, Natasha Neale, said: “Electric mattress blankets can offer comfort and warmth, but when they become damaged or deteriorate with age, they can pose a very real fire risk. Our crews have sadly seen the devastating consequences that unsafe electric blankets can cause, and we want to do everything we can to prevent further incidents. These safety checks are a simple way for the residents of Nottinghamshire to protect themselves and their loved ones. If your blanket is old, worn, or you’re unsure about its condition, please book an appointment and let us check it for you. A few minutes of your time could quite literally save a life.”