THURROCK Council’s Trading Standards department is offering everybody the opportunity to have their electric blanket tested free of charge.

According to statistics from the fire service electric blankets account for approximately 5,000 house fires a year.

Drop off points are being set up across the borough to enable officers to reach as many people as possible without them having to travel too far.

The Drop Off points will be: Corringham Local Housing Office, Kynoch Court, Billet Lane, Stanford-le-Hope, Tilbury Housing Office, Civic Offices, Grays, and The Forum, Derwent Parade, South Ockendon.

The blankets will be tested and returned back to the drop off points with a full report attached.

If you live in Thurrock and would like your electric blanket tested, bring it to at any of the drop off points mentioned above before October 22.

If you require further information, contact Trading Standards on 01375 652310.