Few things in this world are as comforting as an electric blanket during a cold night. Comforting though they may be, they can also be dangerous if they are mistreated. Just like all electrical appliances, an electric blanket is perfectly safe when used properly. The team at Jeremy Services has put together some simple safety tips to follow to keep you and your family both warm and safe.
Check Electric Blanket Cords Often
Cord damage is one of the most common problems that can cause a dangerous accident with an electric blanket. A damaged cord can be a fire hazard, and it’s one of the most fragile pieces of the whole blanket. When using an electric blanket, avoid running the cord between a mattress and the box springs. Doing so will expose the cord to a lot of friction damage, which can destroy it over a surprisingly short period of time. Similarly, tightly wrapping the cord around the blanket’s controller or a post can cause it to break. People who have pets should make sure that their animal companion does not chew through the cord, both for their pet’s safety and for the sake of their blanket.
Avoid Overheating
It may seem tempting to combine an electric blanket with a heating pad to keep yourself even warmer, but doing so can be dangerous. Overheating is a serious health risk, and using the two together is a great way to get too hot. It is easy for people to overheat and harm themselves without realizing that they are in danger, especially when sick or tired, so it’s best to play it safe and only use one or the other.
Related Read: Space Heater Safety Tips
Don’t Trap the Heat
Anything can burn if it gets too hot. Make sure that your blanket does not get folded up or crumpled into a ball while it is still turned on. Doing so will prevent the heat from properly dispersing into the surrounding environment, and if it stays like that for too long it runs the risk of catching fire.
Avoid Using on the Very Old and Very Young
Don’t use an electric blanket with very small children, the elderly, or the sick. If they can’t tell you they are too warm, you run the risk of them getting overheated. It’s best to just bundle them up with regular blankets for safety’s sake.
Dispose of Old or Damaged Electric Blankets
When in doubt, play it safe. If your blanket looks like it has been damaged, the best thing to do is get a new one.
