An urgent safety warning has been issued to households across the region over a potential fire risk linked to certain tumble dryers.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to check their appliances following a national alert from the Office for Product Safety and Standards.

The warning relates to some heat pump tumble dryers manufactured by Haier and sold under a number of different brand names. Officials say a fault with internal electrical components could, in some cases, cause the machines to overheat and catch fire during use.

Fire crews say appliance fires can spread rapidly and pose a serious risk to life, particularly when dryers are left running unattended or overnight. Tumble dryers have long been identified as one of the more common causes of accidental house fires in the UK, often due to a combination of electrical faults and the build-up of lint, which is highly flammable.

Residents who believe they may own an affected appliance are being told to stop using it immediately and unplug it if possible. They are also advised to check the model and serial number using the manufacturer’s online tool and arrange a free repair if required.

The safety modification, which typically takes around 30 minutes, will be carried out by an engineer at no cost to the customer. However, officials stress that appliances should not be used again until the repair has been completed.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is also encouraging people to share the warning with friends and family, particularly those who may be less likely to see the alert.

The advice comes as part of wider efforts to prevent avoidable house fires, with firefighters reminding the public that taking simple precautions with everyday appliances can make a vital difference.

Anyone who owns a heat pump tumble dryer is urged to check their appliance as soon as possible to ensure it is safe to use.