News

Blanket Roadshow

A series of free 'Electric Blanket Testing' road shows are being held across the Southern area, including in Dungannon, Coalisland and Armagh.

Electric Blankets cause over 800 fires in the UK each year, with nearly 20 deaths and 200 injuries. Most of the casualties are people aged over 60 years.

The next roadshow in your area will take place on:

September 2nd: Old Mill - Keady : 10am-4.30pm
September 6th: NI Fire Station Armagh: 10am-4.30pm
September 22nd: Dungannon Council Offices: 10am-4.30pm
September 27th: Church Hall, Dungannon Road, Coalisland: 10am-4.30pm

The aim of the roadshows is to reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by faulty and misused electric blankets.

Melanie McClements, Assistant Director for Promoting Wellbeing, Southern health and Social Care trust explains: "Last year 370 blankets were tested following a series of 'Electric Blanket Testing' roadshows. Two hundred and twenty two blankets (60 percent) failed the safety test carried out by an electrical engineer. It is because of these shocking results that we have organised a further series of roadshows this year. These sessions will provide free safety checks on electric blankets and give members of the public tips on their correct use."

Participants whose blankets fail the safety test will be given a £15.00 voucher towards buying a new one and will be able to ask for advice on home safety and general wellbeing issues from representatives attending on the day.

Mrs McClements concluded: "I would urge all those who use electric blankets to come along to the roadshows and have their blankets checked professionally and for those whose blankets are more than 10 years old to have them replaced immediately. Just because it's working doesn't mean its safe."

If you would like to have your electric blanket tested, please book an appointment in advance of the Roadshow by contacting Rebekah van Scoy on Tel: 028 383 44973.

The roadshows which are funded through by the Public Health Agency will run between 10:00am and 4:00pm and refreshments will be provided.

Source: Tyrone Courier
Date: August 25th 2010