What are the dangers of using electric blankets?
- New electric blankets include safety features, such as a rheostat control, that reduce the risk of fire and burns.
- According to Columbia University, 99 percent of all electric blanket fires are caused by those that are 10 years old or older.
- Older blankets may not have internal temperature controls to turn them off before they get too hot.
What are the safest electric blankets?
Store flat or rolled up. "Examine the blanket regularly for signs of wear and tear - for example, worn or frayed fabric, scorch marks, wires poking through the material, any damage to the flex. If you find an issue, get the blanket replaced.
Is it healthy to sleep under an electric blanket?
It may surprise some people, but electric or heated blankets have made a comeback, and they are safer than ever before. However, and in spite of all the new safety features, the conventional wisdom regarding electric blankets is to use them to warm up the bed, but not to sleep with them on.
Do electric blankets cause health problems?
Overheating. Overheating the body with an electric blanket is a risk of electric blanket use, particularly for those with diabetes and other medical conditions. A person with diabetes may have an insensitivity to heat that makes it difficult to tell that the blanket is too warm. This lack of sensation can result in burns in extreme cases.
Is it OK to sleep with electric blanket on?
Summary. Electric blankets are designed to create a warm and cozy bed, but are not recommended for overnight use. They are safe for short term use, and although unlikely, they have the potential to overheat if used incorrectly or for a prolonged period.
Are heated blankets toxic?
In most situations, electric blankets don't pose a significant health risk. Over the years there's been speculation that devices that create electric and magnetic fields (EMFs), like heated blankets and hair dryers, could cause cancer. Those theories have been thoroughly debunked by the National Cancer Institute.
Do heated blankets give off radiation?
Electric blankets do emit radiation from the movement of electric current through wires. Extensive studies in animals have repeatedly failed to show that low-frequency radiation EMFs cause cancer (Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology 2011; 107(3):369-373).
Who should not use an electric blanket?
Those under the age of 5 years may not recognize or be able to verbalize that it is too hot, so these blankets are generally not recommended for them. Another concern is a child who is still bed wetting — they should avoid electric blankets.
Do electric blankets cause leukemia?
Our best estimates of exposure indicate that electric blanket use increases overall exposure to electric fields by less than 50% and magnetic fields by less than 100%. We conclude that there is no major leukemogenic risk associated with electric blanket use in Los Angeles County.
Does electric blanket affect blood pressure?
6, 2019 — Applying a heating pad overnight may help people with supine hypertension, a condition that causes their blood pressure to increase when they lie down including during sleep, according to preliminary results presented at the American Heart Association's Hypertension 2019 Scientific Sessions.
Are electric blankets cancerous?
Although there have been many studies regarding the relationship between the extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) generated by electric blankets and cancer, no proof of a cause and effect has been found.
Do electric blankets emit electromagnetic radiation?
Just like any other electrical device, electric blankets emit an electromagnetic field (EMF) when turned on. Some people believe long-term exposure to it can damage the body and cause cancer, specifically brain tumors and breast cancer.
Do electric blankets have EMFs?
Electric blanket use represents a substantial source of close, whole-body exposure to EMFs. The contribution of an electric blanket turned on throughout the night to a user's total exposure to EMFs has been estimated to be from two to four times those of ambient background residential levels (9, 10).
Can an electric blanket dehydrate you?
Does Using an Electric Blanket Cause You to Dehydrate at Night? Using an electric blanket can lead to dehydration. Your body can overheat as you sleep so you can lose increased body fluid through sweat as well as by the simple act of breathing.
Are electric blankets good for arthritis?
Along with a warm shower, snuggling with an electric blanket can provide joint pain relief. Find one with a timer to turn down heat as you sleep and to turn back up as you are waking up.
Are electric blankets good for old people?
Electric blankets can be dangerous for seniors with cognitive issues like dementia or Alzheimer's or for those who are incontinent. They are unsafe for people with Parkinson's, diabetes, or any paralysis. Seniors may get burned by an electric blanket and should discard one that's over ten years old.
Why do people die from electric blankets?
A study from 2006 found that people died due to overheating or even certain degree burns which were a result of using a damaged electric blanket. Even other publications urged people to reduce the use of electric blankets as they can cause overheating and burns can be especially fatal towards people who suffer from diabetes.
Why are electric blankets so prone to fire?
The older models were more prone to fires because the electric blanket was left plugged for a long time even when the product wasn’t in use and that shortened its lifespan. The wires can overheat while inadequate storage like folding, crumpling, and smushing the blanket can lead to wires getting bent and damaged.
How to use an electric blanket?
How to Use Electric Blanket Properly (13 Tips) 1 Turn it off or unplug it when not in use. 2 Don’t use multiple electric blankets together. 3 Don’t combine electric blankets with heating pads. 4 Unless stated in the declaration, electric blankets shouldn’t be washed in the machine or cleaned with water. 5 If you have a toddler who likes to tinker around, don’t leave the blanket in the plug, as there’s a possibility they may turn it on. Also, avoid plugging it in the sockets with the light switch as control. 6 Avoid dry-cleaning electric blanket unless specified otherwise. 7 Turn it off before you go to sleep unless your blanket has a timer. 8 Don’t pile the other blankets, pillows, toys, and other items that can catch fire. 9 Don’t attach edges under your mattress. 10 If it’s gotten wet, don’t plug it into the power socket. 11 Don’t use hot water bottles in combination with an electric blanket. 12 Don’t fold or bend the electric blanket. Store it hung or gently rolled. 13 Don’t leave it on for extended amounts of time unattended, especially if it’s been balled up or folded before.
Why are new blankets better than old ones?
New models are equipped with temperature controls as well as safety controls and other features. One of the most prominent safety-inducing features is rheostat which can decrease the risk of fires and burns induced by old blankets .
Can you use multiple electric blankets together?
Here’s how. Turn it off or unplug it when not in use. Don’t use multiple electric blankets together. Don’t combine electric blankets with heating pads.
Can toddlers unplug blankets?
Additionally, they can’t unplug it, causing even more risk if you leave them alone with the blanket on the bed.
Do electric blankets keep you warm?
Electric blankets grew in popularity from the moment they were introduced to the market. They help keep you warm during the winter months when nights can get frigidly cold. However, the fame didn’t last long with several side effects of electric blankets that pretty much made it a dealbreaker. Now, decades later we’ll tell the truth about ...
How to minimize danger of electric blanket?
One way to minimize your risk of danger is to avoid putting anything on top of your electric blanket. You need to think of it as any other device in your home that uses electricity and heat, regardless of whether or not it’s turned on.
How many fires do electric blankets cause?
According to the The Electrical Safety Foundation International ( ESFI ), heating pads and electric blankets cause nearly 500 fires per year, with the majority involving blankets that are over 10 years old.
Why is it important to store a blanket?
You should put the item in a place where it won’t collect dust and lint. This is because when you put the blanket back in use, dust and lint can be a fire hazard.
When was the electric blanket invented?
The modern electric blanket was developed in the early 1900s by George C. Crowley, and throughout the last century has continued to advance and evolve with the help of emerging technology.
Does a blanket affect sleep?
A 1999 study examined how raising a person’s core temperature at night with a heated blanket might affect sleep. They found that an increased core temperature caused a significant decline in sleep efficiency, which refers to the total percentage of time a person is asleep while in bed.
Can you put a pet in a heated blanket?
Much like infants and young children, pets have no control over the product, leaving them in danger of getting too hot. Covering a pet in a heated blanket could prove just as deadly as leaving them in a hot car, so you’re better off giving them a regular blanket during cold nights that they can easily remove if needed.
Is it bad to have heated bedding while pregnant?
Pregnant Women. As previously mentioned, heated bedding can increase a person’s core body temperature, and this can be particularly dangerous for women who are pregnant, especially those who are in their first trimester. The extra heat may cause harm to the unborn baby and could lead to an increased risk of miscarriage.
What are the risks of using an electric blanket?
Electric blankets pose a risk of miscarriage and birth defects, as well as fires, burns, dehydration and heat stroke. People with nerve damage and poor circulation are at particular risk.
What happens if you don't wake up with an electric blanket?
When using an electric blanket, dehydration can occur as body temperature rises. If the blanket never shuts off and you never wake up, your body cannot keep itself cool without sufficient water. Heat stroke is the tragic result.
How many fires are caused by electric blankets?
According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), electric blankets or heating pads are implicated in about 500 fires each year. This is especially concerning considering that the blankets probably catch fire while in use – meaning while someone is wrapped up underneath it. Unfortunately, this can result in death, ...
How old are electric blankets?
According to ESFI, most electric blanket fires are caused by blankets more than 10 years old, so you can start by going through your closet and tossing any electrical blankets that have been part of your collection for longer than you can remember.
Can you get burns from a heating pad?
According to the University of Utah, electric blankets and heating pads can cause second-degree burns. They can reach up to 120 degrees, which can scald skin with prolonged exposure. Again, the risk of burns increases if you fall asleep with an electric blanket or heating pad turned on. Do not assume you will wake up due to the burning sensation. ...
Can electric blankets cause nerve damage?
Certain populations may experience dangerous side effects from using electric blankets. For example, anyone with nerve damage or poor blood circulation should not use electric blankets. Both affect your ability to detect whether the blanket has become too hot. Therefore, the risk of being burned increases.
Can you use electric blankets with heating pads?
Do not use electric blankets in conjunction with heating pads, which can increase the risk of increased body temperature. Use the blanket on the lowest comfortable settings, and try to avoid falling asleep with the blanket turned on. Inspect the blanket for frayed wires or damaged coils on a regular basis.
Why do people use electric blankets?
Electric blankets have been found to help provide a considerable amount of relief from the associated pains. What’s more, research has proven that electric blankets may help boost your mood. Evidently, there are many reasons why you would want to buy an electric blanket.
Why do electric blankets burn?
1) Overheating and burns. An electric blanket usually directs heat where you need it most thus promoting a relatively more fulfilling sleep on cool winter nights. However, using these types of blankets may cause your body to overheat. Overheating, in turn, can cause complications to individuals suffering from diabetes and other health conditions.
Do electric blankets help with back pain?
There is no doubt that when correctly used, electric blankets can offer a lot of potential benefits. They not only help relieve muscle soreness, back pain, allergies, sinus problems, tension but can enhance your sleep as well. 1 in 3 Australians or 6.9 million people suffer from at least some form of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
Is an electric blanket a threat?
Even though electric blankets may only produce relatively low-frequency electromagnetic fields, they can still pose a real threat to your health. Studies have established that there exists a strong link between the effects ...
Can you use an electric blanket while pregnant?
Reports have also indicated that using electric blankets during pregnancy can potentially raise your risk of miscarriage. This is because the increased body temperature can cause some harm to the unborn child. So if you are an expectant mum, do yourself a favor and stay away from electric blankets.
Is it safe to use an electric blanket in a bedroom?
These are just a few of the dangers of using an electric blanket. Improper use of these electric appliances may make them potentially dangerous in your bedroom. If you must use one, then strictly follow the washing instructions of the manufacturer to prevent any damages to your blanket.
Can you sleep without electric blankets?
Did you know that there is an addiction that comes with the long-term use of electric blankets? Once you have developed a habit of sleeping under it, you’ll find it difficult to sleep without. This, in turn, increases your risk to nearly all the other dangers previously discussed.
How to keep electric blankets from kinking?
Keep the power cord separate: Avoid folding the power cable in the blanket, which can cause kinks. Gently roll the blanket: Folding an electric blanket can damage the delicate internal wires. Instead, loosely roll the blankets to avoid damaging the heating elements.
What are the two types of EMFs?
According to the National Cancer Institute, there are two types of EMFs: Higher frequency: These include X-rays and gamma rays. They are a part of the ionizing part of the spectrum, which can damage cells and DNA. Low- to mid-frequency: These come from magnetic fields from power lines and electrical appliances, such as electric blankets.
Do electric blankets damage DNA?
Low- to mid-frequency: These come from magnetic fields from power lines and electrical appliances, such as electric blankets. They are non-ionizing and do not damage cells or DNA. Electric blankets are a source of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields. However, they do not have links with cancer.
Can you use two electric blankets at the same time?
According to Columbia University, a person should never use both types of blankets at the same time because it may present a significant fire hazard.
Can electric blankets cause cancer?
They include those with diabetes or circulation issues and pregnant people. Although there is much debate, there is no conclusive evidence of a link between cancer and the extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields that electric blankets generate. Last medically reviewed on March 8, 2021.
Can Parkinson's cause a blanket to catch fire?
Additionally, those with mobility issues may bend or break the blanket’s internal wires, which could potentially cause the blanket to short out and catch fire.
Can you use an electric blanket on older people?
Older adults may also wish to avoid using electric blankets. Their skin may have altered temperature receptors, meaning they cannot tell if they are too hot, potentially leading to burns.
