Graham said: “At this time of year it is easy to put safety to the back of your mind while more interesting things are going on. But the things in your home keeping you warm and cosy could be putting you, and your loved ones at risk.
“The five tips to keep your home safe from carbon monoxide poisoning are:-
1. Make sure the heating engineer is Gas Safe Registered and ask to see ID.
2. Get your boiler annually serviced for safety and to save money.
3. As well as Gas Safe Registered an installer can also belong to the HHIC national Benchmark scheme which provides added reassurance regarding competency.
4. Fit a carbon monoxide alarm inside your home.
5. Be aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning. Remember the six main symptoms to look out for according to Gas Safe Register: headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness.
“Coronation Street, one of Britain’s favourite soap operas will feature an episode over Christmas with one of its leading characters becoming seriously ill as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. The cause was a faulty boiler repair undertaken by an unqualified friend as opposed to a Gas Safe registered installer. I’m pleased to be doing my bit my teaming up with HHIC and sharing their advice on how my constituents can keep safe and not end up like Corrie’s Fiz”.