Electric blanket testing
Free electric blanket checks in Oxfordshire
Make sure your blanket is safe to use this winter.
October 2020
- Monday 5 to Friday 9
- Monday 19 to Friday 23
Things change – but your safety is most important to us. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we will test your blanket, but you will not be able to visit the test venue. We will collect your blanket from your house, take it to be tested and then return it to your house (we will post you a plastic bag and label prior to our collection).
Booking Information
To book your collection call 01865 895999 Option 1 or email: communityengagement@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Why do electric blankets fail their test?
- Because they were over 10 years old and had no safety features built into the controller.
- Because of a leakage of voltage to the surface of the blanket.
- The elements were able to move around inside the blanket with the potential to rub together and cause a short circuit.
- Elements were not secured within the blanket and were exposed to the surface.
- Power lead fasteners were broken and unable to be secured.
- The surface of the blanket was worn, exposing the elements.
If you're unable to make these dates
If you are unable to get your electric blanket tested at one of our venues please check for wear and tear and frayed wires before using it this winter. If it is over ten years old we strongly recommend that you replace the blanket.
Electric blanket testing results
Year | Number Tested | Number Failed | % Failures |
---|---|---|---|
1999 | 913 | 346 | 38% |
2000 | 805 | 378 | 47% |
2001 | 793 | 325 | 41% |
2002 | 951 | 338 | 36% |
2003 | 846 | 333 | 39% |
2004 | 708 | 225 | 32% |
2005 | 689 | 239 | 35% |
2006 | 787 | 315 | 40% |
2007 | 678 | 241 | 36% |
2008 | 827 | 243 | 29% |
2009 | 1,040 | 357 | 31% |
2010 | 815 | 321 | 39% |
2011 | 911 | 332 | 36% |
2012 | 903 | 314 | 35% |
2013 | 806 | 191 | 24% |
2014 | 779 | 189 | 24% |
2015 | 737 | 162 | 22% |
2016 | 831 | 177 | 21% |
2017 | 830 | 200 | 24% |
2018 | 661 | 132 | 20% |
TOTAL | 16,310 | 5,358 | 33% |
2019 partners
- Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service
- Oxfordshire County Council Trading Standards
- Cherwell District Council
- West Oxfordshire District Council
- South Oxfordshire District Council
- Vale of White Horse District Council
- Oxford City Council
- Age UK Oxfordshire