Kent Fire and Rescue Service and gas distribution network SGN are working together to help keep residents safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO).
Many people in the UK using carbon fuelled appliances, such as gas cookers, are not aware of the dangers of CO and do not have a working audible CO alarm. In 2020, out of 8,000 people surveyed, 45% didn’t know that CO doesn’t have a smell, and only 42% had a working audible CO alarm.
By partnering with Kent Fire and Rescue Service, we’re increasing awareness of the dangers of CO, making sure everyone knows the signs of CO and symptoms of CO poisoning to look out for.
Over the next 12 months, we’re funding 1,450 audible CO alarms and 450 accessible deaf alert CO alarms for Kent Fire and Rescue Service to give to customers through their Home Safety scheme, along with free CO awareness sessions. Accompanying the lifesaving alarms, customers will also receive a helpful tips leaflet which gives all the information they need to stay safe from the ‘silent killer’, and what steps to follow if they suspect CO is present in their home.
As part of this partnership, Kent Fire and Rescue Service now has access to our Careline services. This means they can refer customers who need extra support, which provides help with initiatives such as signing up to the Priority Services Register, a free Locking Cooker Valve installation, free energy advice and Help to Heat gas connections.
The partnership follows our existing collaborations with 17 Fire and Rescue Services, including neighbouring East Sussex, across our Scotland and southern network.
Our Social Impact Programme Lead Dan Edwards said: “One of the major aspects of my role is developing projects and partnerships using the Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) that raise CO awareness and reduce CO harm. Working alongside Kent Fire and Rescue Service means we can reach even more customers within our network area to make sure everyone stays safe and well. Partnering with vital emergency services to help us spread the word on the dangers of CO will help us to meet our top priority of keeping our customers safe and well all year round.”
Rachael Spencer, Safe and Well Manager at Kent Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with SGN, to install carbon monoxide alarms in the homes of people who are most at risk across Kent and Medway. As part of our Home Fire Safety visit service, officers provide residents with fire safety advice and test and replace smoke alarms. With the introduction of the free carbon monoxide alarms provided by SGN, we’re able to help keep people in need even safer at home.”
Find out more information about Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s Home Fire Safety visits here, or call 0800 923 7000.
