Testing sessions will take place on Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 September 2016 at Age UK Darlington, Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West. On average this popular event identifies a third of blankets tested as being unsafe. Fire officers will also be on hand to give out home safety advice. Funding has been provided this year thanks to support from the Latimer Hinks Fund, and the Community Health Revenue Fund, via County Durham Community Foundation, for free replacement blankets for any that fail the testing (while stocks last).
In addition, there will be free hand knitted hats and gloves available to those who need them, courtesy of Age UK Darlington.
The safety checks have been organised by Darlington Borough Council’s Trading Standards Team, Darlington Age UK and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service. They will be conducted by a qualified engineer. Appointments can be booked by calling 01325 362832.
Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration said: “This is a valuable service that saves lives and the testing is FREE of charge for Darlington residents. So ensure your own safety and help elderly loved ones and neighbours by booking an appointment to have those electric blankets checked”.