SAFETY experts at British Gas have issued a warning to Bolton residents to check carbon monoxide detectors for BS kitemarks, amid fears over faulty detectors.

A carbon monoxide detector known as the Kidde Safety Lifesaver 9CO-1 has been recalled by manufacturers following safety concerns.

British Gas, which fits more than 150,000 carbon monoxide detectors each year, doesn't deal with the Kidde model and is urging people to check that detectors installed show the British Standard BS7860 mark.

Chris Bielby, Head of Quality and Standards for British Gas, said: "We receive many enquiries from customers anxious to know which are the best carbon monoxide detectors to install in their homes.

"The detector supplied by us is BS kitemarked, meets all the necessary safety standards and has an audible alarm, something that is vital.

"It means this detector is fully effective when people are asleep."

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and highly deadly gas which kills around 50 people a year in the UK.

The gas can leak into a room from gas appliances that have not been properly installed, maintained and serviced regularly.

The main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are sleepiness, streaming eyes, unexplained headaches and general lethargy.

Further information on carbon monoxide detectors is available by calling British Gas on 0645 605040, quoting reference CO.

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