Extra comfort: Stay safe when using heating pads and electric blankets

The fall season brings cooler temperatures to many parts of the country. If you’re not ready to turn on your home’s heating system just yet, heating pads and electric blankets are good alternatives – if used cautiously. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, heating pads and electric blankets are the cause of about 500 fires each year.

To stay safe when using these items, the ESFI offers a list of practices to avoid. DON’T:

• Use a heating pad and an electric blanket at the same time.
• Use an electric blanket or heating pad that has a cracked, frayed or charred cord.
• Put anything on top of a heating pad or an electric blanket, including other blankets or pets, as this can cause the devices to overheat.
• Fold an electric blanket that’s in use, as this can cause the blanket to overheat and start a fire.
• Leave a heating pad or electric blanket turned on when you’re out of the room or sleeping.