An elderly man needed to be treated for smoke inhalation following a fire at his flat in Wilmslow. caused by an electric blanket.
Crews from Wilmslow and Greater Manchester were called to Wood Acres Court just after 3am this morning, Monday 19th January, where a mattress was involved in a fire.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel jet to put out the fire and a high pressure fan to clear the property of smoke. The mattress was then carried outside and damped down by the crews.
The fire was caused by an electric blanket.
Firefighters are urging householders to take extra care when using electric blankets to avoid a risk of fire and to look out for danger signs including: fraying fabric, scorch marks, exposed elements, creasing or folding, damp patches or loose connections.
Wilmslow Station Manager Tony O'Dwyer said: "If your blanket or any part of the wiring shows any of these danger signs, have it checked or replaced. It's cheaper to replace a worn electric blanket than it is to replace your family and your home. If you are in any doubt about the condition of your blanket, replace it with a new one and follow our safety tips below."
