GAS safety company Wales & West Utilities has launched two information films highlighting the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home.

The company, which is the gas emergency and pipeline service which serves Wales and the south west of England, is urging people across West Wales to watch the films which emphasise the importance of having carbon monoxide (CO) alarms fitted in the home and let householders know what to do if they smell gas.

Unlike standard public awareness films, the two 20-second cartoons, featuring couple Frank and Annie, take a light-hearted approach but give viewers a simple call to action designed to save lives.

Carbon Monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas which can be emitted by faulty appliances powered by any fuel that burns, including gas, coal, oil, petrol and wood.

Around 50 people die in the UK every year from CO poisoning and Wales & West Utilities makes over 1,000 visits to properties where evidence of carbon monoxide is present. The symptoms from inhaling it include headache, dizziness, vomiting and shortness of breath. Sometimes people have ‘flu-like’ symptoms, but without the high temperature.

The company’s Clive Book said: “We hope these short films will help drive the messages about the steps to take in a gas emergency and the importance of carbon monoxide alarms – taking on board the information contained within the forty seconds of the films could save lives.

“It’s important for people to realise that carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that doesn’t smell, has no taste and can’t be seen - but it kills 50 people in the UK every year and leaves a further 200 seriously ill.

“We’re urging people to fit an alarm in their homes but to also store the emergency smell gas number – 0800 111 999.”