Don't let your electric blanket end up like this one, firefighters in Bridport have warned.

This blanket caught fire recently - and now crews are warning of the dangers.

A spokesman for Bridport Fire Station said: "We know that people will be digging out old electric blankets as a way of staying warm this winter, but please do check they’re safe before use – unlike this one, which caught fire last weekend."

Offering advice, the station said:

• Make sure you look for signs of wear and tear – for example, worn or frayed fabric, scorch marks, wires poking through the material, or any damage to the flex. If you find an issue, it’s not safe and could start a fire

• If you’re buying a new blanket, make sure it meets the current UK and European safety standards – for example, BEAB approved

• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before use, and never use a hot water bottle in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off

• Unplug blankets before you get into bed unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use

• When storing an electric blanket, don’t fold it as this may damage the internal wiring. Store flat or rolled up

Visit www.dwfire.org.uk/save-safely for more tips.