Free testing of electrical heating products this October

Notes to editors

General electrical product safety advice:

1. Register your appliance at registermyappliance.org.uk and check for recalls
2. Make sure your electrical appliance has a British or European safety mark
3. Do not power heating devices from an extension lead, use wall sockets only
4. Turn heaters off before bed or when you’re not using the room
5. Don’t leave appliances unattended with young children and/or animals
6. Always follow the manufacturers operating and maintenance instructions

Tips to use electric blankets safely:

1. Store electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring
2. Unplug blankets before you get into bed unless it has a thermostat control for safe all-night use
3. Never use an electric blanket if you have an airflow pressure-relief mattress or use emollient creams. Ask for non-flammable alternatives of these items instead
4. If your blanket gets wet, don’t use it, and never switch it on to dry it
5. Do not buy second-hand electric blankets
6. Check electric blankets regularly for wear and tear and replace at least every 10 years

Tips to use portable heaters safely:

1. Make sure heaters are maintained and in good working order
2. Don't take risks with old heaters - get it tested by a qualified electrician or buy a new one.
3. Where appropriate, secure heaters against a wall to stop them falling over, or fit wall-mounted heaters
4. Keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes. Emollient users are at higher risk.
5. Always sit at least one metre away from a heater as it could set light to your clothes or chair
6. Before attempting to move your heater, turn it off and allow it to cool first
7. Only use gas or paraffin heaters in well-ventilated areas. Heaters consume oxygen so you could suffocate if a room is not properly aired.

Advice is using alternative heating methods:

1. Ensure that the heating device you want to use is marked as safe for indoor use
2. Use Carbon Monoxide detectors when using gas appliances to alert to the presence of leaks
3. Make sure all heating appliances comply with safety standards
4. When using hot water bottles, check for wear and tear before use and do not use if the rubber is damaged
5. Do not use boiling water to fill a hot water bottle, do not overfill the bottles, ensure the stopper is sufficiently tightened to prevent leaks, and use an adequate cover to protect skin from burns