Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is supporting Gas Safety Week from 14-20 September by helping raise awareness of the importance of gas safety and encouraging people to ‘Take No Chances’.
Gas Safety Week is an annual campaign highlighting the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances, which can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
This year's theme, ‘Take No Chances’, reminds people not to ignore concerns about gas appliances and to always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for gas work. Taking prompt action can help prevent serious incidents and protect lives.
Home Safety Manager Gareth Hands said:
"Gas safety is something every household should take seriously, and we want to help people feel confident taking simple steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. We're proud to support Gas Safety Week and its 'Take No Chances' theme because when it comes to gas safety, it's always better to act early, check properly and never ignore a concern. "People often think it's only their boiler that needs an annual service, but all gas appliances should be regularly inspected by a qualified engineer, including hobs, ovens and heaters."
As part of Gas Safety Week, MAWWFRS encourages people to:
- Arrange an annual gas safety check and service by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Always check that the engineer is Gas Safe registered and qualified for the work being carried out.
- Look out for warning signs such as yellow or orange flames, black marks around appliances, excessive condensation or a pilot light that repeatedly goes out.
- Recognise the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, including headaches, dizziness, breathlessness and nausea.
- Install and regularly test a carbon monoxide alarm certified to EN 50291.
- Keep vents and flues clear and unobstructed.
- Never attempt DIY gas work. If you suspect a fault, contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Gas Safe Register is the official register of legally qualified gas engineers. To find an engineer in your area, visit GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.
For more home safety advice, visit our website.
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