24 October 2008: FREE electric blanket testing

Media: PR1068

Lewes District Council hosted an Electric Blanket testing week from 20 to 23 October. The event ran from 10am until 4pm each day and was attended by Anchor Staying Put and a variety of agencies offering help and advice on home security, fire safety, energy efficiency, renewable energy and home repairs grants. The initiative was funded by Lewes District Council and East Sussex Downs and Weald Primary Care Trust.

Residents were encouraged to bring their electric blankets to one of the 4 venues within the District to be tested. Where residents were unable to attend the venues, Lewes District Council offered a collection service.

Over the 4 days 194 blankets were tested with 55% (107) being found to be faulty.

Where blankets failed the test and were deemed too dangerous to use, the Council removed the wires and took the blankets away for disposal.

Customers who had their blankets removed for disposal were offered a voucher for up to 50% off the cost of a new electric blanket.

For more information about the event please contact Rebecca Wynn at Lewes District Council on 01273 484363 or email rebecca.wynn@lewes.gov.uk