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RECALL OF ELECTRIC BLANKET PROMPTS SAFETY WARNING

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

At this time of year when the temperature drops it is important people remember to check all their heating products to ensure they are safe to use, Member for Eastern Region Peter Hall said.

Mr Hall’s warning follows the recall of an electric blanket that poses a risk of electrocution.

Anyone who bought a Linda Electric Blanket Super Slumber/ Sleep Safe from
Harris Scarfe or Big W between March 2007 and November 2009 should
immediately stop using it and disconnect it from the power supply.

If there is a severe bend to the electrical supply lead at the connector to
this blanket, this poses the potential risk of an electrical short circuit.

The supplier of these electric blankets, Gerard Sourcing and Manufacturing, has arranged to provide replacement controllers.

Anyone who has bought one of these blankets can contact 1300 373 199 to arrange a replacement controller.

“It’s that time of year when people are wanting to curl up in bed with an electric blanket or hot water bottle, but it is important to check that the product is safe,” Mr Hall said.

“It’s important to regularly check heating products to ensure they are safe, even if the product has always worked in the past,” he added.

Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), mandatory product safety standards are in place for a range of products, including children’s nightwear and hot
water bottles.

If an unsafe product is detected on the market, there are a range of
measures available under the ACL.

Products that have been voluntarily recalled due to the risk of fire
include:

·     Rheem and Everhot brand Heat Pump water heaters
·     Brilliant “Glace” Heater Light Exhaust Fan
·     Stokland Depot – Bolsa Agua Caliente Goma Rubber Heat   
      Water Bag

“When it comes to hot water bottles, a burst or leaking hot water bottle
can cause serious burns or scalds – it is a myth that hot water bottles
last forever,” Mr Hall said.

Tips to avoid injury include:
·     replace hot water bottles every year;
·     remove hot water bottles before going to bed;
·     check the condition of the bottle and examine it for
      leaks or cracks before use; and
·     boiling water should not be used when filling hot water 
      bottles.

Since 2008, Consumer Affairs Victoria has received more than 130 reports from consumers with concerns about heating and gas appliances.

For further information about product safety recalls visit
www.recalls.gov.au For further information about product safety contact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 or visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au

For further information about gas and electricity appliances visit Energy Safe Victoria’s website at www.esv.vic.gov.au
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