Residents urged to test for fumes

Residents in Leicester are being offered free carbon monoxide detectors.

Energy advice workers are trying to reduce the number of deaths caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.

The first 500 householders who call in and complete a home energy check at the energy advice centre in Leicester will receive the detectors.

Safety officials say they are keen for everyone to get their appliances checked to cut down the risks in preparation for the winter months.

Manuel Pardo, energy officer, said: "The detectors that we're giving away change colour.

"If you put it near or above the appliance and it detects some carbon monoxide then it will change the colour of the device.

"This will mean you have some carbon monxide in your house.

"Currently one person a week dies from carbon monoxide poisoning so it is fairly important if you think about it something that is very easy to avoid."

The testing strips are vital because the gas cannot be seen or smelt.