AS THE weather turns colder, and people start reaching for the thermostat, a call is being made on Wokingham borough residents to check on their electric blankets.
Free testing days will be held this weekend, in a bid to keep people safe as well as warm.
Trading Standards warns that every year, across the UK, more than 100 people died and almost 1,000 people are injured due to fires caused by heating appliances.
In partnership with Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, it will be offering free tests of electric blankets and small portable heaters on Thursday, October 19, and Friday, October 20.
It follows a scheme held last year, that saw three-quarters (76%) of tested blankets fail basic safety checks.
Testing appointments can be booked for Wokingham fire station on Easthampstead Road on Thursday between 9am and 3.30pm, and COATS in Pinewood Avenue, Crowthorne between 9am and 2pm on Friday.
To book an appointment, email: Victoria.roseblade1@westberks.gov.uk including the venue and a preferred time for your appointment.
For those unable to visit, drop-off points can be arranged by emailing Ms Roseblade.
Wokingham borough’s trading standards are run by West Berkshire Council’s Public Protection Partnership scheme.
