Gas safety

If you smell gas or think there is a gas leak:

• Put out cigarettes and all naked flames
• Do not use electrical switches or lights
• Open all doors and windows
• Check gas taps and pilot lights for escaping gas
• Turn off the supply at the meter. The stop valve is usually in the same place as the meter
• Phone the 24-hour National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999

Gas appliance servicing

Over 30 people a year die of carbon monoxide poisoning from gas fires, central heating boilers, cookers and flues that have not been properly installed or maintained. Faulty appliances can also cause explosions. Having your gas appliances properly checked each year greatly reduces these risks.

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and poisonous gas. It is produced when gas does not burn properly. Exposure to CO can be fatal. Around 50 people die in the UK each year from CO poisoning. Older people and young children are particularly at risk.

Fuel gas is safe to use, but when gas does not burn properly, excess CO is produced. This can happen if gas appliances are badly installed or maintained.

Carbon monoxide leaks

You can't see, taste or smell CO, but there are signs that indicate CO is being produced. Look out for:

• appliances that usually burn with blue flames that are burning with yellow/orange flames
• soot or yellow/brown staining around or on appliances
• pilot lights that frequently blow out
• increased condensation inside windows

If you think you have a carbon monoxide leak:

• stop using the appliance immediately
• ventilate the room - do not sleep in it
• phone the 24-hour National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999
• contact a CORGI-registered installer to make repairs

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is sometimes confused with the flu. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, confusion and tiredness. Breathing in CO can result in loss of consciousness and death.

If you have any of these symptoms and believe CO may be involved, seek medical advice immediately.

How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

• Ensure that all work on gas appliances is carried out by a CORGI-registered installer.
• Ensure that gas appliances and flues are serviced regularly by a CORGI-registered installer.
• If you live in rented accommodation, ask your landlord to provide you with a copy of the gas safety check certificate. They have a legal duty to carry these out.
• Ensure that rooms with gas appliances are well-ventilated with fresh air and that chimneys or flues are clear.
• Get a carbon monoxide detector. You can buy these from gas suppliers and high street DIY stores.