Gas safety tips to keep you Gas Safe at home

What is Gas Safety Week?

This week is Gas Safety Week, an annual event to raise awareness about the dangers of unsafe gas appliances. Because the majority of us rely on gas appliances, whether for heating, cooking or hot water, it’s vital to carry out checks and ensure they are working safely. According to research from Gas Safe Register, however, one-third of UK adults don’t know the signs of an unsafe gas appliance. One in six also take no steps to ensure their home’s gas safety and shockingly still, just 38% of those asked own a carbon monoxide alarm.

If you’re concerned about gas safety and whether your appliances are in good condition, protect your home year-round with these helpful tips. 

Book annual gas checks

All gas appliances should be checked annually by a Gas Safe engineer and you can make sure that they are certified by checking the Gas Safe Register. A registered engineer will also carry a Gas Safe ID card which you can ask them to present on arrival. Additionally, did you know that if you are of pension age or chronically sick, you may be entitled to a free annual gas safety check? Simply contact your energy company to find out whether you could benefit.

Look out for warning signs

Know what warning signs to look for when a gas appliance isn’t working properly. For instance, the flame on your gas hob should be a crisp blue whereas lazy yellow or orange flames would suggest something is amiss. Excessive condensation or black marks can also imply when a gas appliance is not working properly, however, they can still be deemed as unsafe with no warning signs at all. For best practice, have gas appliances checked every year and make sure you only use them for their intended purpose.

Know the symptoms of CO poisoning

In 2015, there were 393 deaths from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. This is the scary reality and why it’s so vital to spot the signs. Symptoms can vary from headaches, dizziness and nausea to more severe indications such as breathlessness, collapse and even loss of consciousness. Because you also can’t actually taste, smell or see the toxic fumes, a carbon monoxide alarm will be your best defence against poisoning.

Further gas safety

There are many other ways you can ensure the gas safety in your home. Moving house? Don’t move in without getting everything checked by a Gas Safe engineer first. Tenant in a rented property? Make sure your landlord always provides you with an annual gas safety check. It’s also crucial to allow for enough ventilation throughout a property so never cover an appliance or obstruct chimneys and vents.

If you’re concerned about anything we have covered in this guide, our supportive team can assist with any queries you might have. Whether for a gas safety check, carbon monoxide alarm or simply general information, the question is are you ready for gas safety week?