Portable electric heater and electric blanket safety
4 minutes ago
2 min read
The weather is getting colder which means you may want to use a portable heater or electric blanket to keep warm.
Electric blankets and heaters are more likely to cause fires than using your central heating in your home.
Here are some safety measures that you can follow to keep you and your home safe when using an electric blanket or heater.
If you have any issues with your heating please report this to Robert Heath and this will get sorted as quickly as possible.
Choosing an electric blanket or heater
Only buy from a trusted shop or website. Do not buy online from countries outside of the UK and do not buy second hand.
• Check that it has a CE or UKCA mark and is fitted with a standard 3 pin plug.
• If your property is supported, ensure the equipment gets PAT tested
• Look for equipment that has built in safety features.
Not all electric blankets can be on all night, buy the correct type and size heater/blanket for you and always check the instructions.
Check your Electric Blanket
Visually check the blanket before each use. Do not use the blanket if it shows signs of any of the following:
• Scorch marks
• Fraying fabric
• Exposed elements or any damage to the cords
• Control buttons making a buzzing or crackling sound when switched on or if giving off a smell
• Creasing or folding
• Soiling or damp patches
An old BEAB mark means that it is more than 10 years old and should be replaced.
Using portable electric heaters safely
Always place heaters on a flat, stable surface and keep at least 1meter of space around them.
Position heaters away from items that could catch fire including curtains, bedding, furniture, clothing and paper.
Only use heaters in wet areas if the instructions say it is safe to do so.
Never dry clothes or place anything directly on them.
Avoid using extension leads, adaptors or multi-socket extension blocks.
Regularly inspect plugs, cables and the heater for signs of damage, overheating or wear and stop using the appliance immediately if defects are identified
Always switch the heater off when leaving the room or going to bed
What to do in an emergency
Only if it is safe to do so, switch off the electric equipment, pull out the plug or isolate the electric.
Leave the room immediately and follow your fire emergency procedures.
Never use water on an electrical fire.
If you are experiencing any issues with your heating please report this to us via Robert Heath and we will get it sorted as quickly as possible.
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