Safety warning issued as UK households fight the freeze
As temperatures drop and heating systems fire up across the UK, Gas Safe Register is urging households to make sure their homes are safe, warm and ready for winter. With boilers and gas fires coming back into use after months of mild weather, people are being warned about faults and carbon monoxide risks that may have gone unnoticed.
Rob Denman, Director of Gas Services at Gas Safe Register, is reminding families to stay alert and get their gas appliances checked. “When the cold weather hits, most of us just want to turn the heating on and get warm – but taking a few minutes to check everything’s working safely could make all the difference,” he said. “Gas safety checks and CO alarms are essential, not optional.”
Top tips from the Gas Safe Register:
Don’t skip checks to save cash
A third of homeowners have considered skipping annual gas safety checks. Missing a service may lead to bigger, costlier problems later.
Don’t trap the heat
With 4.5 million people planning to heat one room using a gas fire, inspections between 2024 and 2025, showed around 45% of 950 gas fires were unsafe, meaning they were classified as Immediately Dangerous or At Risk. Keep room doors slightly open and never block ventilation grills or chimneys.
Keep carbon monoxide out of your home
CO can’t be seen, smelt or tasted. Gas appliances need fresh air, yet over half of gas fire owners plan to keep doors and windows shut all day. Fit audible CO alarms and test them regularly.
Watch your pets
Pets can show CO poisoning signs first. Red gums, red ears or lips, irritable behaviour, drowsiness or difficulty breathing are key indicators.
Know the red flags
Lazy yellow flames instead of blue flames, sooty marks, or pilot lights that won’t stay on all signal a problem. Collapsing or feeling nauseous can also indicate CO poisoning.
Plan ahead
More than one in four households delay repairs until something breaks. A boiler check can help homes heat up quicker and stay warm for longer.
Have a plan if something goes wrong
If you smell gas or feel unwell, switch off the supply, leave the property and call 0800 111 999. Never attempt DIY gas work; only a Gas Safe registered engineer should carry out checks or repairs.
For more information and safety advice, visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk.
