The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) lends its support to CO (carbon monoxide) Awareness Week, organised by campaign group CO Awareness. Often referred to as 'the silent killer', CO fumes are particularly dangerous because they cannot be smelt, seen or tasted and in extreme cases can kill in hours.

Speaking during CO Awareness Week Paul Stollard, Director Health and Safety Scotland, said: "Those who have lost relatives and friends during the last year as a

result of CO poisoning know how important it is that we get the right messages across to gas consumers. This is especially so at a time of rising fuel prices when consumers may be tempted to cut corners on servicing and maintenance of their gas appliances.

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"I call on industry to continue with its awareness raising activities, and to take responsibility for managing the risks of carbon monoxide. Sadly, each year people die unnecessarily from CO poisoning. By issuing this timely advice, we hope the dangers of this silent killer will be more audible to the public."

HSE advise the public to take some simple steps which reduce the risk of CO poisoning. First, ensure all fuel burning appliances are regularly serviced by an appropriately qualified and registered engineer and that appliances have appropriate ventilation. This is because CO is produced when there isn't enough air for the complete burning of carbon fuels such as gas, oil and coal, which causes poisonous fumes.

Second, remain vigilant for the signs that a gas appliance may be leaking excess carbon monoxide. These include yellow or orange flames (except for fuel-effect fires which display this colour flame), soot or stains around the appliance and a pilot light that frequently blows out. Third, consider fitting a CO alarm.

(GK)