IN preparation for the chilly winter nights, Black Country residents are being urged to get their electric blankets tested next week.
Age UK Dudley has teamed up with Dudley Warm Hones Service, Dudley Trading Standards and the Living Well Feeling Safe partnership to offer the free service.
More than 5,000 house fires are caused by damaged electric blankets every year and out of almost 120 blankets tested at local events in 2013, more than 70 were found to be faulty.
Testing will take place at Dudley Fire Station, Burton Road, on Thursday October 23 and the Elton Centre, St John's Road, Stourbridge, on Friday October 24.
Free replacement underblankets will be offered to the over 60s if their blankets fail.
Places are limited and so bookings must be made by calling 01384 267004.
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