Free electric blanket testing 9 Sep 2026 Ensure your electric blanket is safe ahead of the chilly nights

Residents who own electric blankets may be interested in getting it safety tested for free this autumn to ensure they are ready for the cold weather.

Free electric blanket testing is being provided by a partnership group of organisations including Oxfordshire County Council Trading Standards, Fire Service, all five Oxfordshire District Councils, Volunteer Driver Service and Age Uk Oxfordshire.

A similar service was offered in 2025, with 950 blankets tested, of which 36% failed the safety test.

There are various dates available in Oxfordshire over September and October and booking early is advised. Unfortunately, our nearest session in Witney is already booked up, but the locations and dates still available are:

21 September – Thame

22 September – Rose Hill (Oxford)

23 September – Banbury

6 October – Barton (Headington)

All sessions start at 9am and places are limited, so early booking is advised. This can be done by calling 01865 519800 or emailing [email protected]. There is also an online booking option at https://service.oxfordshire.gov.uk/blankettesting.

During the sessions, refreshments will be available and there will be information from members of the partner organisations about electric blanket safety. Testing is also available for electric throws and heating pads.

For those who would like to get an electric blanket test but are unable to attend any session, a small number of collections can be made each day. Request a collection by emailing [email protected] or calling 01865 519800.