Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is offering home fire safety advice as part of the National Fire Chiefs Council's (NFCC's) Home Safety Week.

The campaign runs from October 1-7 and aims to remind members of the public of the importance of having working home detection systems (smoke, carbon monoxide and heat) in the home.

Burning gas, oil and solid fuels such as coal, coke and wood can all produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell. Fuel burning appliances such as stoves, fires, boilers and water heaters can produce carbon monoxide if they are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Steve Davies deputy head of community safety advises: “Too many people die needlessly or become seriously ill because of carbon monoxide poisoning each year; early symptoms can easily be mistaken for flu or tiredness.

“Carbon monoxide is produced when certain fuels are not properly burnt. This includes gas, oil and solid fuels such as coal, coke and wood. Carbon monoxide can also seep into properties via shared flues or chimneys and can even permeate through brick walls and plaster. It is vital that you know what signs to look out for.”

You are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if:

• Your fuel burning appliance was incorrectly or badly installed

• Your appliance has not been safety checked and serviced annually

• Your chimney or flue is blocked or has not been swept regularly

• There is no audible carbon monoxide alarm fitted and working in your home

Steps to keep your household safe

• Fit an audible alarm and test it regularly

• Service your appliances

• Don’t block ventilation

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to be aware of are:

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Headaches

• Breathlessness

• Collapse

• Loss of Consciousness

To find out more visit: http://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/English/Safety/At-Home/Pages/Carbon-Monoxide-Safety.aspx

MAWWFRS offers free safety checks to anyone who would like advice on home fire safety, which includes the fitting and installation of smoke alarms where required.

To find out more visit: http://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/SiteCollectionDocuments/hfscdocuments/Fire_Safety_in_the_Home_English.pdf