Following these tips to reduce your risk of suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Make sure home heating and cooking appliances are safe and well maintained;
• Boilers, cookers, heating systems and other appliances that burn gas, oil, coal and wood (all carbon based fuels) should be installed and regularly serviced by a reputable, registered engineer;
• Make sure rooms are well-ventilated and do not block air vents;
• For double-glazed or draught-proofed homes ensure there is still enough air circulating for any gas, oil, coal and wood burning home heating and cooking appliances that are in the room;
• Always use gas or other carbon-fuelled tools in a well-ventilated area and put the engine unit and exhaust outside;
• Do not use carbon fuelled equipment and tools inside your home if you can avoid it;
• Always use a safety mask when using chemicals that contain methylene chloride;
• Do not leave petrol-fuelled lawnmowers or cars running in the garage;
• Do not burn charcoal (e.g. disposable barbecue or outdoor heater) either indoors or in an enclosed space (e.g. tent, caravan or garage);
• Do not sleep in a room that has an unflued gas fire or a paraffin heater;
• Fit an extractor fan in your kitchen (if it does not already have one);
• Do not use a barbecue or chiminea inside your home for cooking or for heating.