MP warns of deadly Carbon Monoxide risk

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron is supporting the Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign and is urging local residents to protect themselves against the deadly threat of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

New research from the Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign shows that 69% of households in the North West could be at risk of poisoning by not having an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm.

Carbon Monoxide - known as the silent killer - is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell, making it impossible to detect without an alarm. It is produced when fuel-burning appliances, such as gas boilers, cookers or fires, are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Tim Farron is supporting the Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign which encourages people to ensure they have an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm and that they have all fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a registered and qualified engineer.

Commenting, Tim said; "Carbon Monoxide is a deadly gas that you can't see, smell or taste. Too many people are dying or suffering severely from Carbon Monoxide poisoning, and we need to take action. I urge every resident in the South Lakes to make sure that they have an audible alarm and that they have their fuel-burning appliances serviced each year by a professional.

"I would like to see a requirement for all new homes to be fitted with an alarm and also for landlords to be encouraged to provide an alarm in their properties."

Oliver Wright, Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign manager, said: "Our campaign aims to raise awareness and to dispel the myths around Carbon Monoxide alarms. They are available at DIY stores, supermarkets, high street shops or directly from energy suppliers. They cost around £20, but many retailers are offering special discounts in support of our campaign throughout January. Importantly, they save lives."

The Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign recommends four simple steps to keep your household safe:

• Fit an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm which should be marked with the 'EN50291′ safety standard
• Have fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a registered professional
• Don't block ventilation and get chimneys swept at least once a year
• Learn about the danger signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning at www.co-bealarmed.co.uk