Bouncy Castle Hire: Safety Rules for Windy Weather in the UK

Here at Sundorne Bouncy Castles, the safety of our customers is always our top priority. Whilst we love bringing fun and excitement to your events with our range of bouncy castles and inflatables, it's essential to ensure that everyone remains safe whilst enjoying our products. One of the most critical safety considerations when hiring a bouncy castle in the UK is the weather—specifically the wind conditions.

Why We Don't Hire Out Bouncy Castles in Strong Winds

We all know that the UK weather can be unpredictable, and whilst a bouncy castle can be the highlight of any event, it can also become dangerous if used in high winds. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), inflatables should not be used when the wind speed exceeds 24 mph (38 kph). This limit includes gusts of wind, not just the average wind speed.

But how strong are 24mph winds? What do they feel like?

24 mph corresponds to a Level 5 on the Beaufort scale. This is known as a "Fresh Breeze" and is characterised by small trees beginning to sway and moderate waves forming on inland waters. At this wind speed, inflatables can become unstable, posing a serious risk of tipping or even lifting off the ground. This can lead to accidents and injuries, which is why we strictly adhere to this safety guideline.

How We Assess Wind Conditions

Before your event, we monitor the local weather forecast to assess wind speeds. We only use the Met Office to get the most accurate and up-to-date information as this is what is accepted by the HSE. If the forecast predicts wind speeds close to or exceeding the safe limit, we will contact you to discuss the situation.

In some cases, we might need to cancel the hire or reschedule your booking to a safer day. We understand that this can be disappointing, but safety must always come first.

What Happens If We Need to Cancel?

If we determine that the wind conditions are unsafe, we will notify you as soon as possible. You will have the option to reschedule your booking for a later date or receive a full refund. Our team will work closely with you to find a suitable alternative, where possible, to help ensure that your event can still be a success without compromising on safety. This may be items that can be used outdoors regardless of wind speed, such as our range of giant garden games. Alternatively, we will do our upmost to work with your timings if you are able to source a last minute indoor venue.

Can We Still Use the Bouncy Castle Indoors?

Absolutely! If your event is taking place indoors, such as in a hall or sports venue, wind conditions will not affect the use of the bouncy castle. Indoor venues provide a controlled environment, making it perfectly safe to enjoy our inflatables regardless of the weather outside.

Tips for Planning Your Event

To help you plan your event with confidence, here are a few tips:

  1. Check the Weather Forecast: Keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your event. If strong winds are predicted, it might be worth considering an indoor venue as a backup option.

  2. Communicate with Us: We’re here to help! If you have any concerns about the weather, don't hesitate to get in touch. Our team can provide advice and help you plan for any potential changes.

  3. Consider a Flexible Date: If possible, choose a date that can be easily rescheduled in case of poor weather. This gives you more flexibility and peace of mind.

Contact Us

At Sundorne Bouncy Castles, we’re committed to ensuring your event is both fun and safe. If you have any questions about hiring a bouncy castle, particularly regarding weather conditions, please contact us. Our friendly team is always here to help you make the best decisions for your event.

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