As the nights get colder, many of us reach for the electric blanket or plug in a portable heater. Both can keep you warm for less than heating a whole house, but both need using carefully.
According to Electrical Safety First’s analysis of government fire data, accidental electric blanket fires in England reached a five-year high in 2024/25, with 31 incidents, up 24% on the year before. Those fires led to 11 casualties or fatalities.
Most of these fires can be prevented with a few simple checks.
Check your electric blanket before using it
Electric blankets often spend months folded in a cupboard, and that’s when damage happens. Before you put yours back on the bed:
- Look for signs of wear: fraying fabric, scorch marks, discolouration, or wires poking through.
- Check the cable and controller: damaged insulation, loose connections or a cracked controller mean it’s time to stop using it.
- Watch for pest damage: mice can chew through cables while blankets are stored in lofts and garages.
If you find any of these, don’t use the blanket. Replace it.
Use it the right way
- Don’t leave it on all night unless it has an automatic shut-off or is designed for overnight use.
- Never use it folded or creased, because this can cause hot spots and overheating.
- Never use it with a hot water bottle. Water and electricity don’t mix.
- Store it rolled, not folded, to protect the wires inside.
- Consider replacing any blanket more than 10 years old, and buy from a trusted retailer, ideally one with overheat protection.
Portable heater safety
Portable electric heaters are another winter fire risk. To use them safely:
- Plug them straight into a wall socket, not into an extension lead. Heaters draw a lot of power and can overload an extension.
- Keep them clear of anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, clothes and furniture.
- Stand them on a flat, stable surface where they can’t be knocked over.
- Never leave them running overnight or when you’re out.
When to call an electrician
Some signs point to a problem with your home’s wiring rather than the appliance:
- Sockets or plugs that feel hot or show scorch marks
- A burning smell with no obvious cause
- Your fuse box tripping whenever you use a heater
- Flickering lights when a heater switches on
If you notice any of these, stop using the appliance and have your electrics checked. Our Emergency Electrician in Nottingham & the East Midlands service can find the cause and put it right before it becomes dangerous.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace my electric blanket?
Electrical Safety First advises considering a replacement for any electric blanket more than 10 years old. Replace it sooner if you spot damage, such as fraying, scorch marks, discolouration or a damaged cable or controller.
Can I leave my electric blanket on all night?
Only if it has an automatic shut-off or is designed for overnight use. Otherwise, use it to warm the bed and switch it off before you go to sleep.
Is it safe to plug a heater into an extension lead?
No. Portable heaters draw a lot of power and can overload an extension lead, which can cause a fire. Plug heaters straight into a wall socket.
Stay warm and safe this winter
A few minutes spent checking your electric blanket and heater could prevent a fire. If you’re worried about your home’s wiring, or something doesn’t seem right, Urgent Electrical Services can help across Nottingham and the East Midlands.
