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Gas detectors will save lives
Hundreds of people will be safer in their homes, thanks to a scheme to install carbon monoxide detectors.
Firefighters will fit the detectors front-line guards against the gas known as the "silent killer" in homes across Copt Hill, Hetton, Houghton and Shiney Row.
The 750 alarms have been paid for by a £12,000 grant from Sunderland Council's strategic initiatives budget (Sib) to the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
Paul Tait, station manager at Rainton Bridge community fire station, said: "The fire and rescue service works hard to prevent fires from happening in the first place.
"We carry out free home fire safety checks, including fitting free smoke alarms, to houses which are most of risk from having a fire.
"Like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors give people a vital warning and save lives. This funding will enable people living in the Coalfields area to be safer in their homes."
The gas, which is colourless and odourless, kills by stopping the body absorbing oxygen.
It is hoped that the detectors will be fitted within 12 months.
Fraser Kemp, MP for Houghton and Washington East, has been at the forefront of a campaign to prevent carbon monoxide causing further deaths in the region.
In September, Mr Kemp gave his backing to a parliamentary motion which urged the Government to bring forward safety measures proposed by the Health and Safety Commission in 2000.
Mr Kemp said: "We witness needless deaths and injuries ever year and yet these deaths and incidents can be prevented.
"Only 50 per cent of appliances are fitted by registered installers, and tough Government action is needed against the estimated 3,000 illegal non-registered gas installers."
Sent: 06/11/2007
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