Anyone with an electric blanket issued urgent warning

As winter draws near, households are bracing themselves for plummeting temperatures and soaring energy costs. For countless families seeking to slash their bills, gadgets such as portable heating units and electric blankets have become increasingly sought-after during this period.

Nevertheless, homeowners must exercise extreme caution when utilising these appliances within their properties. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue has issued an urgent alert for any household possessing these electrical devices. Taking to TikTok, one of the brigade's firefighters emphasised the dangers linked to incorrect usage, reports The Mirror.

The clip's description stated: "Electric blankets and portable heaters are a great way to keep warm on a budget. However, they can become a fire risk if they're not used correctly. Watch our advice video for some important information!".

During the footage, the fire safety specialist warned: "Electric blankets are a very cost-effective way to keep warm this winter. However, it is important that we make sure that we use these correctly.

"Before use, make sure you check for any damaged cables as this may affect the use of the blanket. Make sure it is plugged into a wall socket and not an extension cable, and you must make sure that it is unplugged and turned off before you go to bed."

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue cautions that overloaded sockets and defective electrical devices are responsible for approximately 7,000 domestic blazes across the nation annually.

Guidance on the emergency service's website advises: "When using electronic devices always use the official charger and don't be tempted to use cheap counterfeit replicas instead. Ensure that you replace all damaged cables and chargers.

"Make sure all electrical appliances have a British or European safety mark when you buy them. Don't overload your sockets - keep one appliance to one plug where possible and use the socket overload calculator to reduce the risk of fire. Unplug appliances when you are going to bed or not using them."

The recommendations state: "Never use square box plug adapters, and if using a strip adapter/extension, make sure it's fused and don't overload it. If using a cable drum extension lead, it should be completely unwound to avoid overheating."

There's also particular guidance for homes with electric blankets.

It warns: "Don't leave electric blankets folded when storing them over summer months as this damages the internal wiring - store them flat or rolled up.

"If your electric blanket isn't thermostat-controlled, unplug the blanket before you get into bed. Don't buy second-hand blankets - check your blanket regularly for wear and tear. If your blanket is over 10 years old, replace it and dispose of the old one at your nearest recycling centre."

While we all hope it will never be necessary, it's wise to have an escape plan ready should you ever need to evacuate your home swiftly. Your primary escape route should be the usual way you enter and exit your home, but a secondary route should also be planned in case the first becomes obstructed.