Electric Blanket Safety
Electric blankets, while comforting in cold weather, can be dangerous if left unattended or used by young children or the elderly. There is a high risk of skin burns at high temperatures and even house fires. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Definition
-
An electric blanket has carbon fiber wires running through it that deliver heat when it is plugged in to an electrical outlet. It usually features a dial for the user to adjust the temperature of the blanket.
Advantages
-
Electric blankets can be safe if used properly. They are best used by a responsible person who does not turn the temperature too high and who remembers to turn it off every morning. They warm a bed quickly and efficiently, even on the coldest nights.
-
Disadvantages
-
The disadvantages of an electric blanket are that they can be unsafe if they are left on for too long. Electric blankets have been known to ignite on fire and burn sleeping people.
Safety
-
Electric blankets older than 10 years old are the main culprits for most fires. The reason is due to frayed and bent wires that disrupt the flow of electricity.
Advice
-
Newer electric blankets are safer, as they deliver less heat than their predecessors, and the wires are less likely to be bent or broken. Keep them away from young children and the elderly, who may not feel burns occurring on their skin.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of leezie5
