Electric blankets may seem like the perfect winter purchase, but they can be very dangerous when not used properly. Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters As the colder temperatures start to roll in, many people will be looking for ways to stay warm in their homes without having to constantly crank up the heating. So for many, an electric blanket may sound like the perfect solution, what could be any better than wrapping a cosy warm blanket around you which you can set at a high temperature? While this may sound very appealing in the winter, many don't realise there are actually several potentially deadly risks that come with using an electric blanket, according to Home Safety Expert Joshua Houston from Household Quotes.
The expert has warned of the dangers of using an electric blanket which includes fire risks and over heating to a dangerous degree. In the UK, there are on average around 1,000 fires per year which are caused by electric blankets, contributing to over 20 deaths. It's estimated that around 35 per cent of electric blankets are faulty and are at risk of catching on fire.
You should always avoid having your blanket on for too long and make sure it is switched off overnight. It's important to turn off your electric blanket when you aren't in the room as the risk of overheating increas.