Safety Tips for Using Electric Blankets in Australia

Electric blankets are a wonderful solution for cold Australian winters, providing cosy warmth without the expense of heating an entire home. However, like any electrical appliance, they require proper care and attention to safety. Each year, Australian fire services respond to incidents caused by faulty or misused electric blankets. This comprehensive guide will help you enjoy the benefits of your electric blanket while keeping your home and family safe.

Understanding the Risks

Electric blankets combine electricity with bedding—two things that require careful handling together. While modern electric blankets are equipped with numerous safety features, understanding potential risks helps you use them responsibly.

The primary risks associated with electric blankets include:

• Fire hazard: Damaged wires, improper use, or overheating can cause fires
• Electric shock: Faulty wiring or exposed elements pose shock risks
• Overheating: Prolonged high-temperature use can cause burns or heat stroke
• Dehydration: Extended use without adequate fluid intake can cause dehydration

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, electric blankets are involved in approximately 40 house fires each year in New South Wales alone. Most of these incidents are preventable with proper usage and regular maintenance.

Daily Usage Safety Tips

Following these guidelines every time you use your electric blanket will significantly reduce any risks and extend the life of your blanket.

Before Use

• Visual inspection: Check for any visible damage to the fabric, cord, or controller
• Spread flat: Ensure the blanket lies completely flat on the bed without bunching
• Check connections: Verify the controller is securely connected at both ends
• Layer correctly: Place the electric blanket under a fitted sheet or light covering—never directly against skin

During Use

• Pre-heat, don't sleep on high: Use higher settings to warm the bed, then switch to low or off before sleeping
• Never fold while operating: Folding creates hot spots where wires overlap
• Keep pets away: Pet claws can damage internal wiring
• Don't tuck in tightly: Excessive tucking can stress wires at fold points
• Avoid placing items on top: Don't pile heavy blankets or sleep with heated pads on the blanket

After Use

• Turn off at the powerpoint: Simply turning off the controller isn't enough—switch off at the wall
• Allow cooling: Let the blanket cool before folding or storing
• Disconnect carefully: Don't yank cords; unplug gently

How to Inspect Your Electric Blanket

Regular inspections are crucial for identifying potential problems before they become dangerous. Perform a thorough inspection at the start of each winter season and periodically throughout use.

Visual Inspection Checklist

1. Examine the fabric: Look for worn spots, scorch marks, fraying, or moisture damage
2. Check the power cord: Inspect for cracks, exposed wires, or damage to the insulation
3. Inspect connections: Ensure plugs fit securely without wobbling
4. Feel for damage: Run your hands across the blanket feeling for lumps, unusual hard spots, or loose wires
5. Test the controller: Check that all settings work and lights illuminate correctly

Operational Test

When first using your electric blanket each season:

1. Lay the blanket flat on a bed or floor
2. Turn it on to the highest setting for 10-15 minutes
3. Check for even heat distribution—there should be no cold spots or overly hot areas
4. Listen for any unusual sounds (buzzing, crackling)
5. Smell for any burning or electrical odours

Proper Storage Practices

How you store your electric blanket during warmer months directly impacts its safety and functionality when winter returns. Improper storage is one of the leading causes of electric blanket damage.

End-of-Season Storage

1. Clean first: Follow manufacturer instructions to clean the blanket before storage
2. Ensure dryness: The blanket must be completely dry before storing
3. Roll, don't fold: Rolling prevents sharp creases that can damage internal wires
4. Coil cords loosely: Avoid tight coiling or bending of power cords
5. Use breathable storage: Store in a cotton bag or original packaging—avoid plastic which traps moisture
6. Choose a safe location: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heavy items

What to Avoid

• Never store with heavy items on top that could crush wires
• Avoid areas with extreme temperature fluctuations
• Don't store in damp locations like garages or garden sheds
• Keep away from rodents which may chew wiring

When to Replace Your Electric Blanket

Even with excellent care, electric blankets have a finite lifespan. Knowing when to replace yours is essential for maintaining safety.

Replace Immediately If:

• The blanket is more than 10 years old
• There is any visible damage to fabric, cords, or controls
• You notice scorch marks or discolouration
• The blanket produces unusual smells when operating
• Heating is uneven (hot spots or cold patches)
• The controller malfunctions or doesn't respond properly
• Wires can be felt bunching or moving inside the blanket
• The blanket fails a professional safety test

General Lifespan Guidelines

• Budget blankets: 2-5 years with regular use
• Mid-range blankets: 5-8 years with proper care
• Premium blankets: Up to 10 years with excellent maintenance

Special Considerations

Children and Electric Blankets

Electric blankets are generally not recommended for children under 5 years of age. Children's temperature regulation systems are still developing, and they may not recognise or communicate overheating. For older children:

• Use the blanket to pre-warm the bed, then turn off before the child gets in
• Never allow children to operate the controls unsupervised
• Consider heated mattress pads with lower heat settings as an alternative

Elderly Users

Older adults may have reduced sensitivity to heat and temperature changes. Additional precautions include:

• Choose blankets with automatic shut-off timers
• Use lower heat settings
• Check on elderly relatives using electric blankets
• Consider heated throws that can be easily moved if needed

Medical Considerations

Certain medical conditions require extra caution or avoidance of electric blankets:

• Diabetes: Reduced sensation may prevent feeling burns
• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor; excessive heat can be harmful
• Pacemakers: Most modern blankets are safe, but confirm with your cardiologist
• Circulation problems: Impaired blood flow increases burn risk
• Incontinence: Use waterproof mattress protectors and avoid moisture on the blanket

Making Safety a Habit

Electric blanket safety isn't complicated—it simply requires consistent attention to a few key practices. By inspecting your blanket regularly, using it as intended, storing it properly, and knowing when to replace it, you can enjoy warm, comfortable winters without worry.

Remember that the small investment in a quality, modern electric blanket with proper safety certifications is well worth the peace of mind it provides. Australian Standards exist to protect consumers, and purchasing compliant products is your first step toward safe use.