WALES and West Utilities is urging householders to “get ready” for the winter and make vital safety checks.

The gas pipeline and emergency service, which serves Wales and the south west of England, is supporting Gas Safety Week this month to raise awareness of gas safety and is urging people to take time to make sure they are protected this winter.

It is urging householders to take simple steps to make sure their gas appliances are fitted and working correctly and to fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm, if they haven’t already.

Clive Book, of Emergency & Metering Services at Wales and West Utilities said: “We want to make sure that people are ready for winter and keep themselves and their loved ones gas safe. These steps are simple but can be life-saving. Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

“We urge everyone to look at their appliances and make sure they’re ready before the winter months set in, when more and more people start to use their gas central heating.”

For more information, visit www.wwutilities.co.uk