PRESS RELEASE

Stay warm, stay safe this winter

15th September 2003

Welcoming the event Mayor Cllr Shaun Gallagher said:
“Keeping warm during the cold winter months is vital for our health, especially as we grow older. Unfortunately heating appliances are one of the most common causes of injury and death in the home and the costs involved can be a financial burden for many. The event this Friday offers a great opportunity to seek professional advice on conserving heat within the home and keeping warm safely. Our health promotion officers will be on hand to offer advice throughout the day. During the roadshow an expert will provide free safety checks on electric blankets and give tips on their correct usage and Foyle Regional Energy Association will also be on hand to offer their services in helping local people keep warm this winter.”

Each year in the UK electric blankets cause between 800 and 1000 fires, with approximately 20 deaths and 200 injuries. Most of the casualties are older people.

Mr Paul Rafferty, Environmental Health Officer (Health Promotion) at Derry City Council explained:
“Old and damaged electric blankets have caused thousands of fires. I would encourage anyone who intends to use an electric blanket this winter to take this opportunity to have their blanket tested for free. In particular, we would ask those whose electric blankets are over three years old to bring them to Brooke Park for testing as these essential checks could save a life. Also, anyone whose blanket is deemed to be unsafe will be entered into a free prize draw, sponsored by Coolkeeragh Power Limited.”

The last time the electric blanket roadshow came to the city over 50% of the blankets checked were found to be unsafe and a further 20% needed repairs.

The event will open at Brooke Park from 10.00am until 4pm. Anyone wishing to have their electric blanket tested is asked to contact Paul Rafferty at Derry City Council Environmental Health Department on 71 365 151 ext 6931 to book an appointment.
Ends

Notes to Editor

Organisations supporting the event include the Northern Ireland Fire Authority, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Londonderry Home Accident Prevention Committee, Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and Foyle Regional Energy Agency.

For further information please contact City Marketing on 028 71 376 504

For additional information contact:

Press Office

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