Residents are being urged to take advantage of free electric blanket tests.

Fire service chief Stuart Garner said it is “vitally important” that electric blankets remain in safe working order.

He said: “Electric blankets are usually installed beneath bedding which makes them easy to overlook for routine safety checks.

“This is why we are urging the public to take up the free electrical safety checking service.”

Mr Garner said tests last year found 39 per cent of blankets failed.

The free tests will be on offer in October in Oxford, Abingdon, Banbury, Bicester, Chipping Norton, Thame and Witney.

Tests must be booked in advance by calling 01865 815607 or via the website trading.standards@ oxfordshire.gov.uk.