Has your landlord fitted a carbon monoxide alarm in your property?
If you live in a rented property your landlord must supply carbon monoxide alarms.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a silent killer as the gas has no odour, colour, or taste. An alarm is the only thing that can detect it.
As the weather turns colder, the risk increases as people use heating systems more often.
It can be deadly though and this type of poisoning kills people every year.
Next week is Carbon Monoxide awareness week. We stand with other safety organisations in the hope that it could save lives.
Current Laws
Carbon monoxide forms when a carbon-based fuel burns. Such as a boiler, gas cooker, fireplace, stove, petrol engine, or BBQ.
The laws governing alarms changed recently. From October 1st in England, landlords must install alarms in their properties.
The think tank Policy Connect explains what the changes mean: “These changes will require carbon monoxide alarms to be installed in all rented accommodation and new build properties where there is a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers. Carbon monoxide alarms are also required when a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers) is first installed in any home. Both private and social sector landlords will have a duty to repair or replace alarms, once informed that they are faulty.”
The laws are different for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. For more information see HERE
Safety Tips
- Install an alarm in a good position, near every bedroom
- Check alarms. If the alarm is not mains supplied, check the batteries
- Check vents to make sure they are not blocked. This includes the fireplace and cooker
- If the alarm sounds leave the property immediately and call 999. Do not enter the property until help arrives
- Use BBQs outside, never bring them indoors
- Do not sit in a garage with your car engine running
- Service boilers and fuel-burning appliances
- Have chimneys inspected and swept
- Check gas appliances have a valid gas certificate
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Headache
- Feeling sick
- Dizziness
- Lethargic
- Breathlessness
- Loss of consciousness
The Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme (HETAS) has a series of videos.
They cover carbon monoxide safety. From alarm positioning, signs, and symptoms. To measures to prevent exposure.
Watch them HERE
NV LEGAL
NV Legal has a specialist team of solicitors. Experienced in achieving successful outcomes for clients with carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you or someone you know has questions about these issues, contact us for free legal advice.
Consultations are FREE of charge. Advice is from qualified solicitors, regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Call – 03330 112 732
Email – info@nvlegal.co.uk
Website – www.nvlegal.co.uk
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