PRESS RELEASE

Issued on behalf of the Southern Area Accident Prevention Liaison Group

16 October 2009

Electric Blanket Testing roadshows in your area

A series of free ‘Electric Blanket Testing’ roadshows are being held

across the Southern area.

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:

Thursday, 29 October 2009

in the

Council Chamber, Dungannon Council Offices

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

Dr Vinod Tohani, from the Public Health Agency and Chair of the Southern Area Accident Prevention Liaison Group explains: “Last year 365 blankets were tested following a series of ‘Electric Blanket Testing’ roadshows.

“205 blankets (57%) 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.”

Nina Daly, from the Promoting Wellbeing Team of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) says: “Injuries and fires often happen because people do not use or store their electric blankets properly, do not replace them or never have them serviced. People are often unaware when blankets have become worn or damaged and it is advised that electric blankets be checked at least every three years,” she said.

Nina continued: “During three of the roadshows that have taken place in recent weeks across the Southern area 98 blankets were tested and 59 (60%) of these failed”.

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. Participants will also receive a free energy efficiency light bulb.

Dr Tohani 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 it’s safe.”

If you would like to have your electric blanket tested, please book an appointment in advance of the roadshow by contacting Rebekah Vanscoy at the Promoting Wellbeing Team, Brownlow Health Centre on Tel: (028) 3834 4973.

The roadshows which are funded through the Home Accident Prevention Strategy will run between 10.00am and 4.00pm and refreshments will be provided. It is advisable to book an appointment to avoid a lengthy wait.

For further information on the Electric Blanket Testing days contact Nina Daly, on (028) 3834 4973.

-ENDS-

For further information contact: Elaine Hyde, PR Assistant on 028 3741 4597.