Archived press release

Date Published: 01/11/07

Aylesbury Vale’s senior citizens are being invited to get their electric blankets checked for free at an information event for older people. AVDC has teamed up with Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust, Buckinghamshire County Council, Carers ...

Aylesbury Vale’s senior citizens are being invited to get their electric blankets checked for free at an information event for older people.

AVDC has teamed up with Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust, Buckinghamshire County Council, Carers Bucks, Thames Valley Police and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to offer free budget, safety and health advice at a ‘Senior Wellbeing Fair’ being held on 16 November at the Winslow Centre.

The event is an opportunity for the over 60s to bring their electric blankets for inspection by safety experts. The blankets will be taken away for testing by Buckinghamshire Trading Standards and returned to residents the following week.

Electric blankets in poor condition can be a fire hazard and can put older and vulnerable people particularly at risk.

Jenny Newton, Health Improvement Officer at AVDC, said: “Old or damaged electric blankets cause about 250 fires nationally each year. It is important that anyone who owns an electric blanket has it checked regularly.

“Used correctly, electric blankets can be a great comfort, especially to older people, but blankets need to be properly maintained and stored. I would urge residents to take advantage of this free service – it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

As well as getting their electric blankets tested, local older people can come and exchange their old ‘sloppy’ slippers for a new, fitted pair free of charge. Poor fitting footwear is a major cause of falls among older people with old worn-out or loose slippers one of the key culprits. 

A team of experts will also be on hand to offer advice to visitors about a variety of issues. The experts will include professionals from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue, health and benefits services and the district council’s home service.

In addition, free refreshments will be available and a free lunch will be supplied from 12 noon to 2pm on a first-come, first-served basis.

The event will be held in the Rose Rooms at the Winslow Centre, Park Road, Winslow, and will run from 10am to 2pm. For more details, please call 01296 585154.