Gas Safety Week runs from 8 - 14 September 2025.

 
This week we’re working with Gas Safe Register to highlight the importance of gas safety, one of which includes the risks of carbon monoxide.
 
Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the “silent killer” because you cannot see it, smell it, or taste it. It can leak from faulty boilers, cookers, or fires, and build up without you even knowing. Breathing it in can cause serious illness, and in the worst cases, it can be fatal. 

However, there is no need to panic - simple steps like testing your CO (carbon monoxide) alarm and knowing the warning signs can make a big difference.

As your landlord, we conduct important gas safety checks annually to help keep your home safe. But there are also small checks you can do yourself that add an extra layer of protection. 

In this article, we’ll share practical tips on how to test your CO alarm, spot the warning signs, and understand what to do if something doesn’t seem right. 
 

Why Carbon Monoxide is Called the ‘Silent Killer’ 

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste. That is why it is often called the “silent killer.” It can leak from faulty boilers, cookers, fires, or any appliance that burns gas, coal, wood, or oil. 

When carbon monoxide builds up indoors, it can quickly make you very unwell. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, feeling sick, being short of breath, or confusion. Some people describe it as feeling like the flu, but the difference is that the symptoms usually ease when you leave the house and get fresh air. 

Because you cannot detect carbon monoxide yourself, a working CO alarm is the only way to know if it is present.  

 
How to Test Your CO Alarm in Minutes 

Your carbon monoxide alarm is one of the most important safety devices in your home. But it only protects you if it’s working properly. Testing it is quick and easy: 

1. Press the test button
   Hold it down until you hear a loud alarm sound. This tells you the batteries and speaker are working.
   
   
2. Check it once a month
   Make it part of your routine, just like checking your smoke alarm.
   
   
3. Look for an expiry date
   Most CO alarms last between 5–7 years. The date is often printed on the back. If it’s out of date, it won’t give you full protection and should be replaced.
   
   
4. Replace batteries if needed
   If your alarm runs on batteries, make sure they’re in good condition. If the alarm starts beeping when there’s no danger, it could be asking for a new battery. 

These small checks only take a minute, but could save your life. 

5 Warning Signs of Carbon Monoxide You Should Never Ignore 

As well as relying on your alarm, there are other signs that CO may be present:

• Sooty or yellow/brown stains around gas appliances.
• Pilot lights on boilers or fires that keep going out.
• Yellow or orange flames on a gas cooker (they should normally be blue).
• Stuffy air, lots of condensation, or a burning smell.
• Feeling unwell at home but better when outside. 
   

What to Do if Your CO Alarm Goes Off 

If your alarm sounds, it’s important to act quickly:

• Open doors and windows to let fresh air in.
• Switch off all gas appliances.
• Leave your home straight away.
• Call the Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999.
• Once safe, contact us so we can arrange a registered engineer to check your home.

Never ignore a CO alarm, it’s warning you for a reason. 
 

Simple Steps You Can Take to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Leaks 

Alongside our annual checks, you can also reduce risk by: 

• Never blocking air vents or covering up flues.
• Not using BBQs, camping stoves, or outdoor heaters inside your home.
• Reporting repairs as soon as you notice a problem.
• Keeping your home ventilated by opening trickle vents or windows.

These small actions, together with your alarm, give extra protection. 
 

Landlord Gas Safety Checks: What We Do to Keep You Safe 

By law, we must carry out a gas safety check in your home every year.

This is done by a Gas Safe registered engineer, they’ll check your boiler and any gas appliances to make sure everything is working safely. 

We’ll book this appointment for you and let you know the date and time, please make sure you’re at home so the engineer can get access into your property.

These checks are free and are one of the most important ways we protect you and your household.