One button press could save your life, says gas firm
Households across North Wales are being urged to test their carbon monoxide (CO) alarms after new data revealed most were not checked at all last year.
Figures from the Carbon Monoxide Research and Analysis (CORA) platform show that 95 per cent of alarms went untested in 2024. The analysis, based on more than 50,000 digital alarms, suggests thousands of families could be at risk.
Carbon monoxide is often linked to winter heating, but Wales & West Utilities said it remains a danger during the summer, with appliances such as gas cookers, boilers, barbecues and camping stoves capable of producing the gas if used incorrectly.
Known as the “silent killer”, carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelt or tasted. Symptoms of poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea and breathlessness, which can easily be mistaken for other illnesses. Severe cases can cause collapse or loss of consciousness.
Sophie Shorney, Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance Manager at Wales & West Utilities, said:
“It is concerning to hear that most households are not testing their carbon monoxide alarms. We cannot stress enough the dangers households could be putting themselves into if they either do not own a carbon monoxide alarm, or are not testing to see if their alarm works.
“Carbon monoxide is a risk even in the summer, as households will still use their gas appliances to cook and power their home.
“If you’re travelling this summer, take your carbon monoxide alarm with you and don’t forget to test it regularly.
“A simple action of pressing a button for a couple of seconds could save your life.”
Wales & West Utilities supplies free carbon monoxide alarms to eligible households through its Vulnerability Carbon Monoxide Allowance programmes, which are funded by Ofgem.
More information is available at www.wwutilities.co.uk/services/safe-warm/carbon-monoxide/
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