WIRRAL South MP Ben Chapman is urging the people of Wirral to ensure their chimneys and flues are checked regularly after the government issued fresh warnings against the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.

About 50 people a year are killed by carbon monoxide poisoning, either because their heating system is faulty or chimney blocked - but all of these deaths could have been avoided.

To ensure that the message hits home, a new three-point plan has been launched by the government. The plan involves over 200,000 safety advice leaflets circulated in GP's surgeries; 19 million separate leaflets being sent out with every gas bill, and TV adverts to reinforce the message on gas safety.

Said Ben: "For too long, too many people have been dying from carbon monoxide poisoning. Only by making people aware of the dangers of this deadly gas can we assure that these numbers will come down.

"People should ensure that they get their heating system checked annually by a qualified engineer whether it is gas, oil or any fossil fuel. This would include checking chimneys.

"You must ensure that air vents are never blocked. Tenants should ensure that their landlord checks the heating system. Landlords have a duty to ensure the system is checked and tenants have a right to see a certificate or receipt.

"I want everyone in Wirral to take the time to read these leaflets and to ensure they protect themselves and their family against this silent killer."

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