As the cold weather draws in, it's worth making sure that that favourite old electric blanket won't turn out to be a killer, says STEPHEN LEWIS.

DO you sleep with a killer?

It might sound an odd, even ghoulish question - but it is exactly what Trading Standards officers in York are asking this week.

Old and damaged electric blankets, apparently, cause more than 5,000 fires across the country each year.

And while, as the cold weather draws in, it may seem tempting to dig out that old leccy blanket from the bottom of the closet, Tradings Standards officers say you should get them tested for safety before switching them on.

Up to half of old electric blankets could be unsafe, says Matthew Boxall, principal trading standards officer with City of York Council.

That's how many failed the test when Trading Standards in York offered free electric blanket tests back in September.

"The most common problem was older blankets not fitted with devices to protect against overheating, but these were not the only problems," he said.

"Many electric blankets in use are potentially unsafe and they should be tested each year, particularly if they have been folded and stored for several months. So if your blanket has been in use for some time or you are concerned about the way your blanket has been stored while not in use I would strongly urge you to bring your blanket in for testing.''

Getting your blanket checked out is not as difficult as it sounds.

After the success of September's electric blanket testing sessions, Trading Standards have organised more sessions.

Free testing of blankets will be available at the Fire Station, Clifford Street, York on Monday and Tuesday next week, between 9am and 4.30pm.

Testing is free and should only take about ten minutes - but you will need to book in advance to make sure you get a slot. Simply phone Trading Standards on 01904 551569 between 9am and 4pm.

The tests are supported by Age Concern, and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue will be on hand to offer other safety advice about the home.

Picking up the phone is a small effort to make for something that could potentially save your life, says Liz Levett, of York Trading Standards.

"I would strongly advise anyone who has got an old blanket to get it checked," she says.

"There is the potential, if it has gone wrong, for you to electrocute yourself or set fire to the house!"

Updated: 09:13 Thursday, November 27, 2003