THURROCK Council is once again offering local people a free electric blanket testing service to ensure they are safe to use before the cold nights hit hard.
The council’s trading standards team are setting up collection points across the borough and urging people to drop their blanket off before 1 October.
Cllr Phil Smith, portfolio holder for public protection, said: “This is something we do annually and is an integral part of our drive to protect the people of Thurrock – and in particular older residents and the vulnerable.
“But we are offering everybody the service to anyone, irrespective of age.”
The tests will be carried out at the council’s Civic Offices in Grays and are free of charge.
The drop-off points are at the South Ockendon Centre in Derry Avenue; the council’s Civic Offices, New Road, Grays; Corringham Library, St John’s Way, and the Chadwell St Mary Centre – formerly the library – in Brentwood Road,
Cllr Smith said: “We have set up drop-off points across the borough to enable us to reach as many people as possible without them having to travel too far.
“If you have an electric blanket you would like tested, please make sure it is clean and placed in a large bag with your name, address, and phone number written clearly, and attached to it.”
The council’s testing system sees the blankets tested and returned to residents with a full test report, but it is important to note blankets which fail the test will not be returned.
Cllr Smith added: “Even if you had your blanket tested last year, we would still recommend you have it tested again this time. It doesn’t cost you anything and it make sure you are safe.”
If you require further information, contact 01375 652477.
