Today is the start of Gas Safety Week, a national campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of gas safety.

This year’s campaign is focused on the theme, Take No Chances, and is an important reminder for people to make sure they remain gas safe at all times, and that risks (large or small) should never be ignored.

Run by the Gas Safe Register, the campaign also helps raise awareness of the potential risks associated with gas appliances and what to do if you notice a problem.

Gas plays an important role in many of our everyday routines, from heating our homes to cooking our meals. Gas appliances are safe when they’re properly maintained, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks and know how to spot when something isn’t quite right.

With that in mind, here are some practical tips you can follow to help keep your home and household safe:

Tip 1: Make sure your gas appliances are checked regularly

Having your gas appliances checked every year is one of the most important things you can do to keep your home safe. Regular inspections can identify potential issues before they become more serious and help make sure appliances work correctly.

As your landlord, we are legally responsible for your safety and are committed to carrying out annual safety checks on gas appliances and pipework, even if the supply has been capped at the meter or boiler. If you are contacted about an appointment, please provide us with access to your home because these checks play an important role in helping you stay gas safe.

Tip 2: Always use a Gas Safe-registered engineer

Only a Gas Safe-registered engineer should carry out gas work in your home, which includes installing, servicing and repairing appliances.

Before any work is carried out, make sure you check the engineer’s Gas Safe Register ID card and confirm they are qualified for the type of work required.

Tip 3: Spot the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be seen, smelt or tasted. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Breathlessness
• Nausea
• Collapse
• Loss of consciousness

Unsafe gas appliances can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, so it’s important to act swiftly if you suspect a problem. Carbon monoxide alarms provide an extra layer of protection and alert you if carbon monoxide is present in your home.

Tip 4: Know what faulty gas appliances look like

There are some simple signs you can look out for that may indicate a gas appliance isn’t working properly. They include:

• Lazy yellow flames instead of crisp blue ones
• Black marks or stains on or around an appliance
• Excessive condensation in a room

If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately stop using gas appliances, turn off the gas at the meter and fully open your windows and doors. To notify our team, get in contact with us on 0800 0850 160. You can also contact the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Working together to stay gas safe

Keeping you safe in your home is one of our top priorities. Gas Safety Week is a valuable opportunity to refresh your knowledge and make sure you’re doing all you can to stay gas safe.

By giving us access for gas safety check and any repairs, knowing the warning signs and acting quickly if you detect a problem, you can help keep yourself and those around you safe.

For further information about our commitment to gas safety, including what our annual gas safety checks involve and what you need to do, please our gas safety page.