When it’s cold outside, an electric blanket can be so inviting. But, faulty or worn-out electric blankets can be deathtraps or cause serious injuries. Many communities conduct free electric blanket testing events, and some will even replace your unsafe blanket for free. It is not uncommon for 30%, 40% or more of the blankets tested to be deemed unsafe.
Electric Blanket Injuries
Electric blankets can directly cause burns, and should not be used by people who are insensitive to heat or are unable to do something about it. The elderly, infants, and people with certain health conditions such as diabetes are at greatest risk for this type of electric blanket injury.
Faulty and old electric blankets can start fires. Damaged or frayed wires can create heat or sparks. A malfunctioning temperature control device can allow the blanket to get extremely. A faulty electric blanket can easily start a house fire, posing a threat not only to the user but to the entire household.
Electric blanket injuries include:
- Severe burns
- Smoke inhalation injuries
- Scarring severe enough to limit mobility
- Death
Electric Blanket Safety
- Do not use an electric blanket that is more than 10 years old, even if it appears to be in perfect condition.
- Never buy a used electric blanket.
- Do not wash an electric blanket in a washing machine.
- Do not have an electric blanket dry cleaned. The chemicals can cause damage that makes it more likely to combust.
- Do not plug in a damp electric blanket, and if you spill something o the blanket, unplug it immediately.
- Do not tuck in an electric blanket.
- Do not sit or place heavy objects on an electric blanket that is folded, rolled, or wadded up.
- Store your blanket on top of other item or protected inside of a box where it will not be folded too tightly or compressed.
- If your blanket shows discoloration unplug it immediately and do not use again. It could be a sign of scorching.
