By KLTV Newsdesk –

Health and safety specialist urges households to check fans before use as temperatures remain high

With another spell of hot weather affecting many parts of the UK, millions of people are turning to electric fans to stay cool.

However, health and safety experts are reminding households that a few simple precautions can help prevent accidents and keep fans operating safely.

The team at High Speed Training has shared practical advice on using fans safely during the current heatwave, encouraging people to carry out basic checks before switching them on.

Dr Richard Anderson, Director of Learning at High Speed Training, said: “With temperatures rising, people across the UK will be reaching for their fans to try and keep cool.

“Whilst fans are great at helping beat the heat, there are some important safety tips that can help keep them running smoothly and safely.”

Register new fans for safety recalls

Anyone purchasing a new fan is encouraged to register it with the manufacturer. Doing so ensures owners can be contacted if a safety issue or product recall is issued.

The advice follows reports of around 18,000 fans being recalled in the United States after concerns they could overheat and pose a fire risk.

Inspect for signs of damage

Before using a fan, experts recommend checking the plug, cable and appliance for signs of wear or damage.

If the fan makes buzzing or crackling noises, or if the plug becomes unusually warm during use, it should be switched off immediately and checked by a qualified electrician, as these could indicate an electrical fault.

Keep fans clean

Dust build-up can place extra strain on a fan’s motor and increase the risk of overheating.

Users are advised to unplug the appliance before cleaning and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It’s also important to ensure the protective housing is securely fitted to prevent accidental contact with the blades.

Don’t leave fans running unattended

Although it can be tempting to leave a fan running overnight, experts advise switching it off before going to sleep or leaving the room.

Instead, they recommend using the fan to cool the bedroom before bedtime while opening windows to improve air circulation, reducing the need for it to remain on throughout the night.

Position fans correctly

Where a fan is placed can also affect both its performance and safety.

It should always be positioned on a flat, stable surface to prevent it from falling over and should be kept clear of curtains, bedding and other hanging fabrics that could obstruct airflow or create a hazard.

Simple checks can prevent accidents

Dr Anderson said taking a few moments to inspect and position a fan correctly can make a significant difference during periods of prolonged hot weather.

“With temperatures set to stay high for the next week or so, fans are a quick and affordable way to help us keep cool.

“However, they are still an electrical appliance, so it’s important to ensure that our trusty fans are being used safely.

“Taking a few minutes for some simple safety checks can help prevent a fire or a nasty accident and keep your fan running smoothly.”

As the hot weather continues, experts say following these straightforward safety measures can help households stay cool while reducing the risk of electrical faults and fire hazards.