- Accidental electric blanket fires rise by 24% year-on-year
- Experts urge households to check their devices are safe as energy cost concerns grow amid conflict in the Middle East
- Warning signs revealed that your electric blanket could be unsafe
Households are being urged to check that their heating devices are safe, as fires involving electric blankets have reached a five year high.
The warning comes as concerns over rising energy costs grow amid the conflict in the Middle East.
Analysis of Government fire data by consumer safety charity, Electrical Safety First, reveals accidental electric blanket fires across England reached a five year high in 2024/25, with 31 incidents recorded.
This marks a 24% increase compared with the previous year (2023/24), when 25 incidents were recorded.
“We know some households may look to heat their home differently when energy bills are high,” said Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First. “Those struggling with the cost-of-living can often turn to alternative heating devices, such as electric blankets and portable heaters, in a bid to keep heating costs down, but they are not without risk.
“If these products are substandard, damaged, or used incorrectly, they can pose a risk of fire. Electric blankets in particular can be a risk due to how close they often are to the person using them. If a fire breaks out in the bed, it’s not uncommon to see injuries as a consequence.”
Previous research by the charity revealed how households were turning to devices such as portable heaters, due to concerns about rising energy costs back in 2022.
Now, with concerns once again growing around domestic energy costs, as a result of the conflict in the Middle East, experts are urging households to check their heating devices are safe before using them.
Giuseppe Capanna adds: “Whilst daytime temperatures may be rising, night-time lows remain chilly in many places, and people will continue to turn to alternative heating devices to stay warm. We urge anyone using an electric blanket to check it carefully for signs of wear and tear before plugging it in. When storing it, roll rather than fold it to help protect the internal wiring, and avoid using one overnight unless it has an automatic shut-off.
“If your blanket is more than 10 years old, it’s worth considering replacing it. If you're using a portable heater, avoid powering it through an extension lead, as these can become overloaded. Ensure your heater is far away from flammable materials, placed on a flat surface, and never left running overnight.”
A total of 11 casualties and/or fatalities were recorded as a result of accidental electric blanket fires in England during the year period 2024/25.
Signs your electric blanket could be unsafe:
- Scorch marks/discolouration: scorch marks and discolouration are likely signs of overheating, posing a potential risk of fire.
- Frayed or damaged wires: exposed internal wires poking out of the fabric that may be frayed or showing signs of discolouration can pose a fire risk.
- Rodent damage to cables: before you plug your electric blanket in, check your mains cable for signs of rodent damage, which may have occurred if you stored your blanket away during the summer months.
- Replace your blanket: If your blanket is 10 years-old or more, it’s time to replace your device. Stick to a reputable high street retailer to ensure your electric blanket is made to a high standard.
Electrical Safety First’s tips on how to use an electric blanket safely:
- Buy your electric blanket from a high-street retailer you know and trust and look for ones that have built-in safety features like automatic shut-off and overheat protection.
- Check the blanket and its cable for damage before plugging it in, especially if it's been in storage.
- If you're using it overnight, either switch it off before bed or make sure it has an automatic shut off.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and cleaning.
- Don’t use an electric blanket while it’s folded or creased, as this can cause it to overheat.
- Never pair it with a hot water bottle, as you could be at risk of electric shock if water comes into contact with it.