FREE electric blanket testing

If you live in Oxfordshire, we encourage you to get yours checked to help keep you safe and warm this winter

Blankets that will fail their test:

• Blankets that are over 10 years old and have no safety features built into the controller.
• There is a leakage of voltage to the surface of the blanket.
• The elements in the blanket can rub together because they move around inside it. Elements like this can cause a short circuit.
• The elements are not secured within the blanket and are exposed to the surface.
• Power lead fasteners are broken and unable to be secured.
• The surface of the blanket is worn, exposing the elements.

The electric blanket tests are normally very popular, with places limited. 

Tea and biscuits will be available to everyone who comes along with their electric blanket.

Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, Trading Standards, Age UK, Oxfordshire's District Councils, and Public Health England will provide information and advice on a range of issues. If you can't come to us, we can collect your blanket from you and return it after testing.

• Online - request an electric blanket test here - https://service.oxfordshire.gov.uk/blankettesting
• Phone - call 01865 519800

Visit one of our events across Oxfordshire before winter to make sure your item is safe to use

What to expect

We will test your electric blanket and check that it is safe to use. You can also get free refreshments and information about staying safe and well at home.

Electric blanket safety check locations – September and October 2026

• 21 September - Thame Fire Station, ThameOX9 2DP
• 22 September - Rose Hill Community Centre, OxfordOX4 4HF
• 23 September - The Mill Arts Centre, BanburyOX16 5QE
• 24 September - Willow Gardens, Chipping NortonOX7 5FX
• 25 September - Abingdon Fire Station, AbingdonOX14 5DH
• 5 October - Didcot Fire Station, DidcotOX11 8RX
• 6 October - Barton Neighbourhood Centre, HeadingtonOX3 9LS
• 7 October - John Paul II Centre, BicesterOX26 6AW
• 8 October - Council Offices, Woodgreen, WitneyOX28 1NB
• 9 October - Wantage Fire Station, WantageOX12 8DU

Home collections

We offer a limited collection service for people who cannot bring their electric blanket to an event. Tell us you need a collection when you book your appointment.

Book an appointment or contact us if you have a question:

• Phone 01865 519800 (automated booking line)
• Email duty.officer@oxfordshire.gov.uk
• Book an electric blanket safety check here



Appointments are available from 9am.