Gas and carbon monoxide safety
Gas and carbon monoxide safety
Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that cannot be seen, smelt or tasted. It can be produced by faulty fuel-burning appliances in your home such as a gas boiler or gas fire/heater and where there is poor ventilation. It’s important to be aware of the danger signs as around 16.4 million households are at risk from the effects of carbon monoxide.
"Due to being difficult to detect and the fact that many households are facing challenges in affording the cost of regular gas appliance servicing, carbon monoxide can still pose a serious risk to the health of families across the country. Knowing the signs and symptoms, and installing a carbon monoxide alarm are great ways to keep you and your family safe."
Edward Allard - Social Programmes Manager at Cadent Gas
Be carbon monoxide aware
Known as a ‘silent killer’, the dangers of carbon monoxide are well publicised, and with more time spent at home with less ventilation in the winter, it’s important to remain extra vigilant at this time of year. As carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas, it’s difficult to detect. So make sure you fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm, test it regularly and check the expiry date.
Know the danger signs
Signs that could suggest carbon monoxide in your home include gas flames burning orange or yellow instead of the normal blue, soot stains on or above the appliance and coal or wood fires that burn slowly or go out.
Smell gas? Call immediately
If you smell gas, open your doors and windows. Turn off gas at the meter (unless the meter is in a cellar). Don’t use electric switches and extinguish naked flames. Call 0800 111 999 immediately.
Free safety checks
If you rent your home then by law your landlord has to carry out an annual safety check of gas appliances in your home. If you're a homeowner and on certain benefits you may be eligible for a free annual gas safety check. Contact your gas supplier to check your eligibility.
Did you know?
Carbon monoxide alarms can be purchased cheaply and are easy to install. To find out more and learn the best position for a carbon monoxide alarm in your home visit Cadent's website.