Springfield, IL – As winter temperatures grip Illinois, fire officials are urging residents to use extra caution with electric blankets and heating pads, warning that improper use can lead to dangerous house fires.
According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, heating pads and electric blankets are responsible for approximately 500 fires each year nationwide, with nearly all of those incidents involving electric blankets that are more than 10 years old. Officials say aging wiring, worn insulation, and misuse significantly increase fire risk during colder months.
The agency reports that many fires occur overnight or when devices are left unattended. Electric blankets should never be left on while sleeping or when leaving a room, as overheating can happen without warning.
Fire safety officials also caution residents not to fold, bunch, or tuck electric blankets under mattresses, which can trap heat and damage internal wiring. Inspecting cords and plugs before each use is critical, especially looking for frayed wires, scorch marks, or cracked insulation.
Residents are also warned not to plug electric blankets into extension cords or power strips, as this can overload circuits and cause overheating. Only blankets that meet nationally recognized safety standards, such as UL or ETL certification, should be used.
Another key reminder: heating pads and electric blankets are designed for different purposes and should not be used interchangeably or stacked together.
Fire officials stress that while these products can provide comfort during freezing temperatures, safe use is essential to prevent house fires, injuries, and potential loss of life.
Anyone using electric blankets this winter is encouraged to follow manufacturer instructions carefully and replace older models with newer, safety-tested versions.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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