A sat nav can help you get to your destination using the quickest, most effective route. They use a combination of satellites and mapping software and are a lifesaver when you’re running late!
Sat nav safety
Sat navs are generally very safe to use as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take a few sensible precautions before and during use.
Safety first
- Make sure you buy your sat nav from a reputable dealer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- It’s important to register a new sat nav with the manufacturer so that you can be contacted if a safety notice or recall is required. It also makes it easier for you to return a faulty product or order a repair. To register any of your appliances, regardless of age, visit our Product Registration page.
- Use our free online Product Recall checker to see if your sat nav or any other electrical items have been recalled.
- Check that your appliance has a UK plug; if it doesn’t, don’t try to use a UK travel adaptor. Get in touch with the retailer and ask them to fit a UK plug.
- Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch. If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping then contact a registered electrician to investigate.
- Any socket you plan to use to plug in a sat nav should have RCD (residual current device) Protection. An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires. If you don’t have RCD protection in your fuse box for your sockets, consider using an RCD plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.
Using your sat nav safely
- Follow all product instructions and all instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual regarding accessories or modifications.
- Do not expose the sat nav to direct sunlight in an unattended vehicle for prolonged periods. Overheating may damage the unit.
- Do not handle the sat nav while it is hot. Let the product cool, out of direct sunlight.
- Never use the charger if the plug or cord are damaged.
- Do not expose the charger to moisture or water and do not use in a high moisture environment. Exposure to water may cause electrical sparks or fires.
- Never touch the charger when your hands or feet are wet. Allow adequate ventilation around the charger when using it to operate your sat nav.
- Do not cover the charger with paper or other objects that will reduce ventilation.
- Do not use the charger while it is inside a carrying case or other container.
- Ensure that the charger is connected to a power source with the correct fitting and voltage requirements.
- Only use the correct mains power charger or in-vehicle charger to charge the sat nav’s internal battery.
- Do not use your sat nav if it appears to be damaged.
- Do not attempt to alter or manipulate your sat nav in any way.