This device is dangerous if it breaks down or is left on all night. With the arrival of winter weather, homes begin to fill with small appliances that provide comfort and warmth on the coldest nights. One of the most popular, especially among the elderly or those who live in very cold areas, is the electric blanket. However, what for many is synonymous with comfort can become a silent danger if not used responsibly.
Although the space heater or electric heater are usually the main culprits when it comes to household fires in winter, electric blankets top the list of appliances that can cause fires in bedrooms, especially at night.
Electrical safety experts agree that these types of products, although safe when in good condition and used correctly, present a high risk if they have faults or if they are left on for a long time, especially while sleeping. The greatest danger lies in their internal resistors, which generate heat through electricity and are surrounded by textile materials that, in the event of a fault, can easily catch fire.
Main risks of using electric blankets
One of the most common mistakes is to leave the blanket on all night. Although some come with a timer or automatic shut-off, many others do not have this system, and can overheat after several hours of continuous use.
Another common risk is the use of old blankets or ones with damaged cables, something that can lead to short circuits or sparks near flammable materials such as mattresses, sheets or blankets.
It is also risky to fold them or store them incorrectly, as this can damage the internal resistors and cause them to malfunction.
How to use the electric blanket safely
To avoid accidents, specialists recommend:
- Checking the condition of the product before use, especially if it has been stored for a long time.
- Never sleeping with the blanket on. Use it only to preheat the bed and disconnect it before going to bed.
- Do not plug it into power strips or extension cords, but into a wall socket.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it and do not bend it when it is in operation.
- Choose models with automatic shut-off and electrical safety certificates.
In addition, if there is any strange smell, sparking or excessive heating, it is essential to disconnect it immediately and stop using it.
In the middle of winter, it is understandable that we seek to keep warm in a practical way, but prevention is key to avoiding tragedies. The electric blanket can be a great ally against the cold, as long as it is used responsibly and a golden rule is respected: always unplug it before going to sleep.
