General News
22 August, 2022
CFA issue warning on electric blankets
While the end of winter is in sight, cold weather remains and the CFA is urging the community to check their electric blankets are in good working order. The reminder has been prompted by a fire at a unit in Hamilton recently caused by an electric...
While the end of winter is in sight, cold weather remains and the CFA is urging the community to check their electric blankets are in good working order.
The reminder has been prompted by a fire at a unit in Hamilton recently caused by an electric blanket.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said while the occupants of the unit were unharmed and crews contained the fire, these types of incidents are often avoidable by taking simple measures.
“Regularly check electric blankets for broken or worn wiring,” he said.
“Ensure they are kept flat with controls at the side of the bed and when using them, turn electric blankets on 30 minutes before getting into bed and make sure they are turned off as you get into bed.
“CFA turned out to 14 house fires that were caused by electric blankets last year, and we continue to attend these incidents which are often easily preventable.”
According to the CFA, more than 70 percent of fatal house fires start in bedrooms and living areas.
Mr Heffernan said in every household, smoke alarms should be a bedroom essential.
“On average, there are more than 3000 house fires in Victoria each year and most can be prevented by taking simple precautions,” he said.
When it comes to electric blankets, the CFA recommends:
• Electric blankets should be checked for any damage to wires, leads, and hot spots
• Old electric blankets should be unplugged, then have the cord cut off so that there is no chance of it being re-used
• Never purchase and/or use a second-hand electric blanket
• Electric blankets should be laid flat and secured tightly on the bed
• Electric blankets should be turned on half an hour before going to bed, and turned off as you get into bed.