British Gas highlights lack of public awareness on gas safety in UK homes

A survey of 2,000 adults has revealed that only 51% feel adequately educated about the risks of a gas leak, and a mere 48% are confident they could switch off their main gas supply if necessary. Shockingly, just 29% who have ever had to identify and deal with a carbon monoxide leak felt confident doing so.

The study also found that less than half (47%) have ever installed a carbon monoxide alarm to alert them to this dangerous substance in their homes.

The research, commissioned by British Gas ahead of Gas Safety Week, discovered that 18% of adults wish they were taught how to spot a gas leak in school.

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Faye Lackey, a British Gas engineer, commented: "It's clear that as a nation we are not as confident as we should be when it comes to gas safety. But a few simple steps can make a big difference when staying gas safe at home.

"An annual boiler service and gas appliances check is a quick job that can catch issues early and keep everything running smoothly. Regular checks will also help to prevent more serious issues, such as fires or carbon monoxide poisoning."

Alarmingly, only 45% of those surveyed said they wouldn't feel comfortable even checking their carbon monoxide alarm, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Meanwhile, a shocking 16% confessed they've never had a qualified professional carry out a gas safety inspection on their household gas equipment including boilers, fireplaces, and cookers.

Faye continued: "If anyone comes to your home to work on gas appliances, it's essential that they're on the Gas Safe Register.

"Installing a carbon monoxide alarm and checking it's in good working condition regularly will help the overall safety of your home. Make sure it's got a British Standard mark and check the lifespan of the detector so that you know when it's time to replace it.

"If you smell gas and suspect a gas leak, you should take action immediately by calling the Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999. Turn gas off at the shut off valve, ventilate the area by opening windows and door and then evacuate the area quickly."

FAYE'S TOP TIPS FOR MAINTAINING GAS SAFETY IN THE HOME:

• Know the warning signs – Pay attention to yellow or orange rather than blue flames on a gas hob, which might signal poor combustion and a potential carbon monoxide risk, as well as black marks or stains around the appliance, excessive condensation in the room, or unusual smells or noises.

• Book regular checks – All gas appliances such as boilers, cookers, and fireplaces should be serviced at least once a year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

• Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm – make sure to test it monthly, replace batteries when necessary, and follow the manufacturer's guidance for replacement.

• Keep vents and flues clear – if your home has chimneys or flues, they may need regular inspections and sweeping to prevent blockages.

• Check for leaks – If you ever smell gas, open windows and doors, switch off the gas supply at the meter if safe to do so, leave the property, and ring the emergency gas line straight away.

• Use appliances properly – never use a cooker or oven to heat a room, and avoid running portable heaters in poorly ventilated spaces.

• Be careful with DIY – trying to install, modify, or repair gas appliances yourself is both illegal and dangerous. Always hire a Gas Safe registered engineer.

• Keep records – Tenants should be given, and keep, a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) by their landlord, which should be carried out annually.