RESIDENTS are being urged to have their gas appliances checked annually by proper engineers.
Gas Safety Week (Monday to Sunday, September 11-17) raises awareness of the importance of ensuring appliances are working safely and efficiently to prevent fires, leaks, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning.
HWFRS attended 111 gas-related incidents from January 2013 up until the end of July 2023 with 46 involving fire and 31 responses to carbon monoxide leaks.
They sadly resulted in 16 fatalities with 144 people receiving injuries and 21 escaping uninjured.
Emma Roberts, HWFRS head of prevention, said: “I would urge people to ensure they have their appliances checked by a professionally-qualified Gas Safe engineer.
“This will provide vital protection against the dangers of unsafe gas appliances.
“It’s also important, as we face rising energy bills, not to risk your health or mental welfare by tackling ‘fuel poverty’ by reducing heating, hot water or cooking or skipping necessary gas appliance repairs or servicing to save on cash.
“I’d also encourage everyone to keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable relatives and neighbours who may be particularly struggling at the moment.”
Jonathan Samuel, chief executive Officer for Gas Safe Register, said: “It’s great to have the support of Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service this Gas Safety Week.
“By working together we can reach more people and help to reduce the number of dangerous gas appliances that could be lurking in the homes of the UK’s 23 million gas consumers.
“Prioritise safety first and always use a qualified Gas Safe-registered engineer to fit, fix or service your gas appliances.”
Visit: GasSafeRegister.co.uk to find a registered gas engineer.
