Herts Fire and Rescue Service has issued a warning over the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning as part of Gas Fire Safety Week.

Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell.

Fuel burning appliances such as stoves, fires, boilers and water heaters can produce carbon monoxide if they are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Gas, oil and solid fuels such as coal, coke and wood can all produce carbon monoxide.

Hertfordshire County Council's member for community safety Richard Thake, said: “It is important that householders understand that by not maintaining gas appliances properly, they could be putting themselves and their family at risk.

"That’s why we’re calling on residents to get their appliances checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer and install carbon monoxide alarms.”

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to be aware of are, nausea, dizziness, headaches, breathlessness, collapse or loss of consciousness.

For more information, visit: www.gassafetyweek.co.uk.