If you use gas in your home, it is extremely important to be aware of certain basic safety facts that will help you to prevent your gas appliances from malfunctioning and help to ensure that you are not in any danger. Keep the following advice in mind to get the most out of your gas boilers, fires and cookers in a safe and responsible manner.

Have Your Appliances Checked On A Regular Basis

Ideally, you should ensure that all every one of your gas appliances is safety checked and serviced at least once a year. This includes your boiler, gas cooker, and any gas fires that are installed in your home. If a fault is noticed, spotting and amending this problem could prevent a breakdown further down the line, or it could even solve a very serious failing that could have caused a hazardous leak. If you don't own your own home and are a tenant in a flat, speak to your landlord about arranging such a yearly check, and be firm about its importance if you encounter any resistance.

Know The Signs That An Appliance Is Not Working Properly

If a gas appliance is malfunctioning, you may notice black stains around it, you may become aware of a build-up of condensation or steam in the room where the appliance is situated, or you may see that the flame has changed from a bright blue to a lazy yellow. If you notice any of these signs, call an engineer.

Be Careful When Choosing An Engineer

Make sure that anyone who is going to be checking or fixing any gas appliance in your house is Gas Safe registered. Since being careless or sloppy when fitting or maintaining a gas appliance can lead to fires or carbon monoxide leaks, engineers are carefully monitored to make sure that they practice their trade safely and effectively. This way of regulating engineers has replaced the older CORGI system.

Be Careful When An Engineer Visits

When a gas engineer shows up to examine or fix any of your appliances, ask to see their Gas Safe ID card as proof of the fact that they have been officially recognized as being capable of carrying out the type of work that they are offering to you. Gas engineers are used to this, so do not worry about appearing rude or untrusting; your safety comes first.

Ensure Adequate Ventilation

Gas appliances need a specific amount of ventilation in order to burn properly, so be careful not to block off any air vents that might be providing air to your appliances.

Be Vigilant About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

It is unpleasant to think about what might happen if there is a leak on your property, but it is vital that everyone living in your home knows how to recognise the symptoms of carbon monoxide. The main symptoms are breathing problems, nausea, feeling dizzy, headaches, fainting and unconsciousness, and being aware of these tell-tale signs could save your life. Even more importantly, make sure that you install at least one carbon monoxide detector near your main gas appliance (or appliances).

Only Use Your Gas Appliances For The Purpose For Which They Were Intended

Some people are tempted to try and use a barbecue inside the house after planning a summer party that is spoilt with a rainy day, or to use their gas oven to heat up a cold room. However, these alternative uses can be dangerous, so don’t try to use your oven, fire, or barbecue in an unconventional way.