HOW safe is your electric blanket? It may be a thought that's never crossed your mind.
But did you know that the emergency services deal with hundreds of electric blanket fires each year? And some of those incidents are fatal.
Government figures published in 1999 show that in one year 19 people died due to faulty electric blankets and the fire service dealt with 816 fires caused by electric blankets of more than ten years old.
These stark statistics will come under the spotlight at a Community Fair in West Devon on Saturday June 22.
The event, which is attracting more than 40 organisations across the borough, includes a crucial electric blanket testing service. The safety check is free to those aged over 65 and just £6 for anyone else.
But in order for you to get your electric blanket checked out you must book in advance — for an appointment telephone 01822 813720.
The Community Fair being held at Tavistock Pannier Market on June 22 is being organised by West Devon Community Safety Partnership whose leading members are West Devon Borough Council, Devon County Council and Devon and Cornwall Police.