Heating pads in the bed is just as bad. Heating pads are suppose to be used on top of the body not underneath. No weight on them at all. The newer electric blankets just warm, they don't get hot and they have fail safe features. The one I have shuts off if any weight is detected on the blanket. If my cat lays on the blanket it will turn off. It was special ordered and the company was bought out and the blanket is no longer being made. I wish I had bought a spare. If you like an electric blanket get the best one or don't use one at all.