BE REWARDED FOR PLAYING BY THE RULES
07 Jun

Is your Electric Heater safe to use this winter?

Some simple safety tips:-

  • Never operate a heater you suspect is damaged. Before use, inspect the heater, cord, and plug for damage.
  • Clean all surfaces of dust before use.
  • Never leave the heater operating while unattended, or while you are sleeping.
  • Keep combustible material such as beds, sofas, curtains, papers, and clothes at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front, sides, and rear of the heater.
  • Never cover the heater while in use.
  • Be sure the heater plug fits tightly into the wall outlet.
  • During use, check frequently to determine if the heater plug or cord, wall outlet, or faceplate is HOT! If the plug, outlet, or faceplate is hot, discontinue use of the heater, and have a qualified electrician check and/or replace the plug or faulty wall outlet(s). If the cord is hot, disconnect the heater, and have it inspected/repaired by an authorized repair person
  • Never power the heater with an extension cord or power strip.
  • Ensure that the heater is placed on a stable, level surface, and located where it will not be knocked over.
  • Never run the heater’s cord under rugs or carpeting. This can damage the cord, causing it and nearby objects to burn.
  • To prevent electrical shocks and electrocutions, always keep electric heaters away from water, and NEVER touch an electric heater if you are wet.
Share this
07 Jun

Winter is here ! – have you checked your electric blanket for safety?

With the arrival of cooler nights, the electric blankets come out of the closet. Do you know if your electric blanket is still safe to use?

Is your blanket  more than 10 years old?

If so, best to replace it as over time the electrical components and wires will wear even if the cover looks good.

Is it a washable electric blanket?

If so please read the instructions carefully and make sure the blanket is fully dry before placing it on your bed and turning it on.

Before placing the blanket on your bed.

Turn the blanket on to ensure that it is in good working order. Check the wires for kinking and wear.

Do not sleep with the blanket on.

Children especially are prone to overheating if the blanket is left on overnight.

Are you using your electric blanket underneath an underlay/underblanket or mattress protector?

If so, check that the instructions allow this. Unless otherwise stated, all electric blankets should sit on top of underlays/mattress protectors. The undersurface of underlays/mattress protectors are not designed to take intense heat especially if they have a waterproof coating.

Check the Recalls website to see if there have been any recalls of electric blankets.

Share this

© 2015 Certification Body Australia. All rights reserved.