Dangers of DIY work on gas boilers

The UK’s most popular soap, Coronation Street, is set to showcase a dramatic carbon monoxide story-line that will break over the Christmas period. Popular Corrie character Fiz Brown will be left fighting for her life after unqualified Tyrone attempts to fix her boiler.

ITV has reportedly said it is one of their biggest and most important story-lines in a very long time and has consulted with the Gas Safe Register for expert advice on this controversial plot. In a bid to raise awareness of the dangers of unqualified boiler work, the drama could also see Tyrone facing prosecution for unlawfully trying to fix an appliance without being qualified to do so.

Our very own Marketing Manager, Charlie Belliere, comments: “Research undertaken by the gas safety watchdog, Gas Safe Register, has alarmingly revealed that one in three people say they would fit a gas appliance themselves to save money. This dramatic Coronation Street story-line will show that while DIY gas work may save money it is illegal and carries a huge risk.

“We strongly advise that customers and property owners never attempt any work on gas appliances. Unqualified attempts to install, repair or move appliances such as a gas boiler or cooker can have deadly implications. Unsafe gas work can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions and exposure to carbon monoxide – the silent and lethal killer.

“Anyone undertaking even minor work on gas appliances who is not Gas Safe Registered will almost certainly be breaking the law, so our advice to local property owners is don’t put lives at risk – always use a registered engineer.

“What’s more, with the New Year and cold weather upon us, now is the ideal time for property owners to get their boilers checked and serviced ready for 2013. Our dedicated team of engineers are fully qualified and on hand to assist with all central heating requirements and we are even open on Christmas Day should anyone have a festive boiler emergency!”