HOMEOWNERS are being warned about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) after a survey revealed two thirds of people in Scotland have not protected themselves against the deadly gas.

The warning comes as part of this year’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, which will highlight the risks of CO poisoning throughout November. 

Despite how the gas kills more than 50 per year, the survey, carried out by OFTEC, showed two thirds of Scots have not installed a CO alarm.

CO is produced when carbon fuels don’t burn properly, and any type of heating system where combustion takes place can potentially give off the odourless, colourless gas.

OFTEC, the UK trade association for the oil heating industry, is promoting a checklist which advises households of key steps they should take to reduce the risk of poisoning.

The firm is urging people to purchase a CO alarm for every room which has a fuel-burning appliance. It is mandatory for private landlords to provide an alarm in rented properties.

Households are advised to regularly ensure all alarms are functional by holding the ‘test’ button, and people should check they have their boiler services at least once a year to check it is working correctly.

If your alarm goes off, open the windows and leave the room immediately before calling 999.