DORSET residents are being advised to check their boilers to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness week starts today with energy supplier Southern Electric warning of the dangers of blocked chimneys and flues, poorly serviced boilers and gas appliances in caravans.
Around 50 people die in the UK every year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning with almost one-third of incidents caused by faulty gas appliances.
Southern Electric has revealed that although many people are aware of the need for a regular boiler service, only around one in four homes has a gas boiler maintenance contract to ensure this happens.
Southern Electric boiler expert Ian Batty said: "Many people are shocked to discover that other gas and fossil fuel appliances like cookers and fires can also produce carbon monoxide if they are not working properly."
Southern Electric has issued an eight-point check list to help prevent exposure to carbon monoxide, available to view at www.southern-electric.co.uk/ForYourHome
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