How to tell if your electric blanket is safe to use

Winter has well and truly set in, but before you crank up your trusty electric blanket, it’s important to make sure it’s in top shape for the months ahead.

“Electric blankets should be placed flat on beds and people should make sure that controls and cords are not twisted or caught between the mattress and the base of the bed,” said Peter Gallagher, an expert in fire risk management. “At the first sign of wear electric blankets should be checked by a qualified electrician.”

How to check for damage

Before you fit the electric blanket to your bed, check the cord, control switch and plug for any signs of wear. Also look for any kinks, exposed wires, or breaks in the heating element. Scorch marks are also a worrying sign.

Once you’ve done a visual check, Worksafe said a simple way to check for damage was to lay the blanket flat and turn it on for 15 mins at the highest setting, while watching it carefully and then turning it off. While the blanket is still warm, run your hand over it to find any hot spots.

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“A hot spot means the heating coil has been kinked or damaged,” Worksafe said on their website. “This could lead to fire or electric shock.”

If you feel any hot spots or have any concerns about the safety of your blanket, get it checked out by a licensed electrician or replace it with a new one.

Even if your electric blanket is still in relatively good condition, it’s recommended to replace your electric blanket every five years as newer heat-protected models are safer.

Electric blanket safety

• Keep the cord and control switch clear of your bed and bed sheets to reduce the risk of damage.
• Don’t leave the blanket unattended for long periods of time while it is switched on.
• Don’t place heavy items on the bed while the blanket is switched on.
• Never fall asleep with your electric blanket switched on, even if it’s only on a low temperature. Always switch it off when you get in bed.
• Worksafe said if you can feel a sensation when touching your electric blanket, get it checked out by an electrician prior to further use.
• When it comes time to store your electric blanket at the end of winter, don’t fold it up, roll it instead.

– This story originally appeared on stuff.co.nz