Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

MLA urges people to have Electric Blankets checked

Published: 5 September, 2009

Cathal Boylan, Sinn Féin Assembly member for Newry and Armagh, has raised awareness of an opportunity for people with electric blankets to avail of free testing of their appliances.

'Whilst we are only coming out of the summer period, it will not be too long before the dark autumn and winter nights are upon us. Therefore, many people, especially the elderly, will be thinking about taking their electric blankets out of storage to use on the cold evenings.'

The Sinn Féin MLA continued;

'Users, and there friends and family, may wish to avail of a opportunity to get their electric blankets expertly checked by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust at the various locations listed below. It can be important to get these electrical appliances checked to ensure they are in good working order. Of course with any electrical unit there is the possibility of accidental fires and there have been cases of faulty thermostats leading to people receiving serious burns due to over heating. For safety and peace of mind, I would urge anyone who owns an electric blanket to take the opportunity to avail of this Health Trust initiative.'

Anyone interested can have their electric blanket checked at the following venues on the date specified, please note an appointment is necessary, telephone, 028 3834 4973 and ask to speak to Rebekah Vanskoy. All tests will be carried out between 10am and 4pm.

ArmaghFire Station,

Loughgall Road

, Thursday 17th September.

Middletown Hall, Middletown, Monday 21st September

Dungannon Council Chamber, Dungannon, Thursday 29th October

Smyth Memorial Hall, Ballygawley, Thursday 12th November.