Don't let your blanket be a safety risk

To help prevent this, North Lanarkshire Council carries out an annual electric blanket safety check for residents.

As autumn approaches, the council's home safety unit is again offering free checks on any electric blankets.

Councillor Helen McKenna, convener of environmental services, said: "Over the next few weeks, many people will be looking out their electric blankets ready for the colder weather. But it is very important to make sure they are safe and working properly before you switch them on.

"Many of the blankets we tested in last year's safety check last year turned out to be unsafe. So if you have an electric blanket at home, or you know someone who uses one, it's worth letting us take a look at it."

To register for the blanket testing scheme, contact the home safety unit on 01698 274247 or e-mail [email protected] by August 30.