I like the idea of an electric blanket, because it can keep you nice and warm, and do so with out having to keep your home's thermostat at a very high temperature.

You can save money with an electric blanket because you are heating only that part of the house that needs to be heated -- the part that immediately surrounds you. And they are comfortable, which is nice to have on a chilly morning.

But, there are issues that users should keep in mind. First is the fire hazard and burn potential. Reports that I have reviewed indicate that these blankets can pose fire and burn hazards. Older and neglected blankets, as well as those not rated by reputable organizations, may pose the greatest risk.

For this reason, some reports suggest that you only use electric blankets that have been approved by nationally recognized testing agencies (like Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.). It is also recommended that you use an electric blanket for no more than ten years. After ten years, statistically they seem to represent a greater risk.

Here are some additional safety tips:

1. Replace any electric blanket that is worn or torn.

2. Turn your electric blanket off when not in use and before you go to sleep (unless the blanket is intended to be used otherwise).

3. Don't use the blankets in any manner or combination that will cause excessive heat. This can lead to burns, fires or both.

4. Don't wash an electric blanket as this can cause malfunctions. Follow cleaning instructions exactly.

5. If the blanket looks damaged, don't use it; if it is wet, don't use it.

There is also some concern related to possible long term health effects from the use of electric blankets.

As far as can be determined for this article, studies are not conclusive. The health effect most discussed is cancer.

Therefore, if you use an electric blanket, you should be aware that it might increase your chances of becoming ill. It is suggested that you review the available literature and draw your own conclusions about this subject.

In conclusion, there are many benefits associated with the use of electric blankets. They can keep you nice and warm, save energy costs and are good for the environment because they reduce the need for energy.

However there are fire and burn risks known to be associated with their use. So be careful. Review the literature and make your own decision. Knowledge is power.

Published: February 1, 2007

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

Stuart Lieberman, Esq. writes about environmental issues. He was a New Jersey Deputy Attorney General assigned to the State Department of Environmental Protection from 1986 to 1990. Currently he is a shareholder in the environmental law firm of Lieberman & Blecher, P.C., located in Princeton, New Jersey. Stuart can be reached at slieberman@liebermanblecher.com.