Paul Holmes MP warns of deadly carbon monoxide risk

11.00.00am GMT Fri 22nd Jan 2010

Paul Holmes MP has urged Chesterfield residents to protect themselves against the deadly threat of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

Shocking new research shows that 84% of households in the East Midlands are putting themselves at risk of poisoning by not having an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm. Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour taste and smell, making it impossible to detect without an alarm.

Paul Holmes 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. The campaign is also backed by Kirstie Allsopp, of Channel 4's Location, Location, Location.

Paul Holmes MP, said:

"Carbon Monoxide is a deadly gas that you can't see, smell or taste. I urge every householder in Chesterfield to make sure that they have an alarm and that they have their fuel-burning appliances serviced each year by a professional.

"I was extremely concerned to learn that 84% of households in the East Midlands do not have an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm, and that this close to the average figure for households across the UK without an alarm. I would like to see a legal requirement for all new homes to be fitted with an alarm and for landlords to provide an alarm before they can receive their annual gas safety certificate."

Christine McGourty, Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed! campaign spokesperson, said:

"We regularly hear about members of the general public whose lives have been saved by a Carbon Monoxide alarm - it's the only way to detect this killer. You can buy an alarm from around £15 at DIY stores, supermarkets, high street shops or directly from energy suppliers. A number of retailers will also be offering special discounts in support of our campaign this January and we're delighted that Paul Holmes MP has added his weight to the campaign."

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