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In this two-minute read, we look at ways you can keep your home and family safe as the weather turns colder.

Households across the country are having the same argument.

And no, it’s nothing to do with Brexit but everything to do with when is the right time to turn the heating on following the summer months?

Is mid-September too early to fire up your gas boiler and central heating?

Is putting on a jumper when you’re indoors the answer to the newly arrived chill in the air?

Whichever side you’re on you’ll want to ensure that when the heating does go ‘back on’, you and your loved ones will be safe.

And that’s why the people organising Gas Safety Week have chosen the 16th-22nd September to hold their annual safety awareness-raising event.

Because it’s around this time of year when most of us reach for the thermostat for the first time since spring.

Gas Safety Week’s goal is to raise awareness among homeowners about the crucial importance of having their gas appliances serviced every year.

When was the last time you had yours checked?

Their website reminds people of the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances, which can lead to gas leaks, fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. All of which can kill.

Here are four simple steps you can do to keep you and your family gas safe.

1)            Have your gas appliances checked every year.

2)            Verify that any engineer you employ is Gas Safe registered (previously called CORGI). Gas Safe engineers work to a set standard and are tested regularly.

3)            Check your engineer’s Gas Safe ID card. Any engineer worthy of employing will have no issue showing you this and you can verify it online with the Gas Safe Register.

4)            Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm and test it regularly.

When it comes to anything gas related in your home it’s always worthwhile to think ‘if in doubt get it checked out.’

And if you are a landlord it’s your responsibility to make sure your property is gas safe for your tenants.

Remember folks, caring is sharing, so if you’ve found this article interesting please feel free to share it.

To find out more about Gas Safety Week or check that an engineer is Gas Safe approved visit: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/gassafetyweek/