Bouncy Castle Hire: Wind Safety Guidelines in the UK
At The Party Doctors, your safety is always our top priority. We love bringing fun and excitement to your parties with our range of bouncy castles and inflatables, but ensuring everyone can enjoy them safely is just as important. One of the key factors we always consider is the weather—particularly wind conditions.
Why We Don’t Use Bouncy Castles in Strong Winds
The UK weather is famously unpredictable, and while a bouncy castle can be the highlight of any event, strong winds can make them dangerous. According to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance, inflatables must not be used when wind speeds exceed 24 mph (38 kph), including gusts.
What does this mean in practice? A 24 mph wind is classed as a “Fresh Breeze” (Beaufort scale 5)—enough to sway small trees and create moderate waves on inland water. At this speed, inflatables can become unstable, increasing the risk of tipping or lifting off the ground, which could result in accidents or injuries. This is why we follow strict safety rules when it comes to wind.
How We Monitor Wind Conditions
Our team checks local forecasts from the Met Office, ensuring we have the most accurate, up-to-date information accepted by the HSE. If predicted wind speeds are near or above the safe limit, we will contact you immediately to discuss options.
In some cases, this may mean rescheduling your booking or cancelling for safety reasons. We understand this can be frustrating, but protecting your guests is our top priority.
What Happens If We Need to Cancel
If wind conditions are unsafe, we will notify you as soon as possible. You’ll then have the choice to:
Where possible, we can also suggest alternatives to keep your party fun, such as giant garden games that are safe in all weather or indoor venues if available at short notice.
Can We Use Bouncy Castles Indoors?
Yes! Indoor events—whether in halls, sports centres, or community venues—aren’t affected by the wind. They offer a controlled environment where our inflatables can be enjoyed safely regardless of the weather outside. Our Venue Directory can give you a good range of locations to choose from.
Tips for Planning Your Event
To help your event go smoothly, consider these tips:
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Check the Forecast: Keep an eye on wind predictions in the run-up to your event. Strong winds may require an indoor backup plan.
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Stay in Touch: If you have any concerns about weather or safety, contact us. Our team is happy to advise on alternatives or solutions.
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Be Flexible: Choosing a date that can be easily rescheduled offers peace of mind in case of poor weather.
Contact The Party Doctors
At The Party Doctors, we’re dedicated to making your event both safe and unforgettable. For advice on bouncy castle hire, wind conditions, or event planning, reach out to our friendly team. We’re always here to ensure your party goes off without a hitch.