Urgent warning as 'silent killer' puts households at risk - and it's all down to the cost of living crisis

The cost-of-living crisis is fuelling a dangerous increase in unsafe appliances, as households delay safety checks to save money, according to a recent study

A recent study has warned that the cost-of-living crisis is leading to a dangerous rise in unsafe gas appliances, as households delay safety checks to save money. Financially strained households across the region are prioritising other expenses over servicing their boilers and gas appliances.

Nearly seven out of ten heating engineers (69%) have reported an increase in households postponing annual gas services due to cost, putting them at risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Additionally, engineers regularly come across poorly maintained and hazardous appliances, with almost four in ten (38%) frequently finding boilers, fires and cookers that require significant repair work or replacement, which homeowners simply can't afford.

This information comes from a new study organised by Project SHOUT - a national campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Poorly maintained and faulty gas appliances can emit deadly carbon monoxide, often referred to as 'the silent killer', as it is invisible, odourless and tasteless.

The recent surge in energy prices, coupled with months of inflation, has dealt a severe blow to struggling households. The loss of the winter fuel allowance is expected to put further pressure on budgets.

A survey by campaign group Project SHOUT revealed that engineers have seen a significant increase in dangerous appliances since the cost-of-living crisis began. Nearly half (45%) reported seeing a rise in dangerous appliances since a previous survey in 2021, reports Birmingham Live.

Carbon monoxide, a lethal gas produced when fuel doesn't burn properly, often comes from poorly maintained or badly fitted appliances. Gas and oil boilers, gas hobs and fires, log burners and open fires are common sources.

With engineers reporting numerous cases of neglected appliances, homeowners could be at serious risk, particularly the elderly and very young. As winter approaches, campaigners fear that the problem will only worsen.

Prolonged exposure to low levels of CO can result in slow poisoning. Symptoms often alleviate upon leaving the house, only to worsen upon return. High levels of the gas can prove fatal within minutes. Medical professionals may misdiagnose CO poisoning, especially during colder weather when many exhibit flu-like symptoms.

Patients are often advised to stay warm indoors with the heating on, inadvertently exposing them further to the source of the poison. The only dependable way to detect carbon monoxide is by using a CO alarm. These potentially life-saving devices are reasonably priced, usually costing around £20.

It's estimated that around 50 people in the UK die from CO poisoning each year.