‘Silent killer’ inspires new ‘Be Gas Safe’ programme

‘Be Gas Safe’ is a major new awareness programme launched to further raise public awareness by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Gas Safe Charity. Called the “silent killer” this important carbon monoxide (CO) initiative will see 10,000 families receiving a free detector, plus many more receiving safety information.

‘Be Gas Safe’ (www.carbonmonoxidesafety.org.uk) aims to make people aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) and the steps that can be taken to prevent CO poisoning. Such as the need for regular servicing of fuel-burning appliances, good ventilation and the use of audible CO detectors.

Organisations that have regular and direct contact with key risk groups (particularly families with young children and older people) are becoming local partners to help deliver the programme across England.

Each year in England and Wales, there are approximately 50 accidental deaths, 200 non-fatal poisonings that require hospital admission and 4,000 visits to A&E departments that result from CO poisoning. Children and older people are particularly at risk.

With gas appliances and flues that have not been properly installed, maintained or ventilated known to be among the causes of CO poisoning, the key focus of the new three-year programme will be sharing information and advice about how to stay “gas safe”. Audible CO detectors will also be distributed free of charge to 10,000 families.

Errol Taylor, RoSPA’s deputy chief executive, said: “For many years, RoSPA has raised awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide, which is known as the ‘silent killer’ because you cannot see it, taste it or smell it.

“Our new partnership with Gas Safe Charity means there will be a sustained effort for a number of years to reach even more people, particularly those who are most vulnerable, with life-saving messages about the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning and the steps that can be taken to reduce the risk.”