Gas and carbon monoxide safety for home owners

Please be aware that poorly installed and/or maintained domestic gas appliances can kill.

You can find advice about how you can make sure that your gas appliances are safe for use and what to do if you have concerns or are facing an emergency here.

If you suspect that there may be a gas leak in your home

You should firstly:

  • Turn-off the gas supply

  • Open the windows to try and ventilate the house

  • Do not use electrical appliances, light matches or cigarettes

Then report the problem to:

THE NATIONAL GRID: Telephone 0800 111 999 (Freephone).

You will be visited as a matter or urgency. If the National Grid considers it necessary they will disconnect the suspect appliance.

Do I need a Carbon Monoxide Alarm?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that you cannot see, smell or taste - but it can kill.

It is recommended that you install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers.
This includes appliances such as:

  • Gas or oil boilers
  • Wood-burning stoves
  • Open fires
  • Gas heaters (not cookers)

You can find more safety information and advice regarding carbon monoxide here.