Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to check their electric blankets and heat pads after a fire in Lichfield.

 

It was clear that the electric heating pad was the cause of the fire. Please ensure these pads are well maintained and check that there is no damage before use.

The Service was called to Castle Dyke at 9.30pm on January 20 to reports of a fire in the bedroom.

Crews from Chase Terrace and Lichfield attended and found an elderly woman suffering with smoke inhalation. The fire was out and firefighters ventilated the property.

Station Manager John Kitchener said: "When we arrived the fire had already been extinguished by the occupier. Although we understand the instinct to tackle a fire yourself please don’t take the risk, get out, stay out and call us. Fortunately the lady only suffered minor smoke inhalation and we treated her with oxygen therapy.

"It was clear that the electric heating pad was the cause of the fire. Please ensure these pads are well maintained and check that there is no damage before use. If there are any signs of damage do not continue to use it. The same goes for electric blankets. They also need replacing after so many years as the wires inside can become damaged by normal wear and tear."