Safety is not top priority for holidaymakers

HOLIDAYMAKERS are prioritising cleanliness over safety when they book their holiday accommodation, new research from Gas Safe Register Northern Ireland reveals. Yet, the tragic deaths of two children, caused by dangerous gas appliances in a holiday apartment in Corfu, highlights the importance of gas safety when on holiday.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Jul 2010, 12:00 BST
Updated 3rd Aug 2010, 18:55 BST

When asked about the basic factors in choosing holiday accommodation, cleanliness and price were the two most important factors for holidaymakers, followed by reputable holiday company, facilities available, quality of food and well maintained furnishings.

Worryingly, safety measures such as regular inspections of gas appliances, having smoke alarms fitted, and swimming pool safety were further down the list of priorities. Less than 10 per cent of people said that having a life-saving carbon monoxide alarm fitted in their accommodation was of the utmost importance to them.

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Gas Safe Register NI is urging people to follow these top tips and enjoy a gas safe holiday in the UK or abroad:

• Check the gas safety of your accommodation before you travel. Ask whether the gas appliances have been safety checked and serviced regularly. If you’re holidaying in UK in cottages or caravans the landlord must do this by law. You can ask the landlord for an up-to-date gas safety certificate.

• Ask if your accommodation has a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm fitted. CO alarms are rare overseas. If you take one away with you, make sure it is suitable for travel.

• Know how to use gas appliances safely. Appliances in holiday accommodation will be different to those you’re used to at home. If you’re not sure how they work read the instructions, or ask your holiday landlord or rep for help.

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• Recognise the signs of dodgy gas appliances. Black marks or stains around the appliance, lazy orange flames instead of crisp blue flames and too much condensation are all signs that gas appliances aren’t working properly.

• Don’t mistake carbon monoxide poisoning with other holiday sicknesses, such as food poisoning, dehydration or a hangover. The six main symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness.

• If you smell gas or think there might be a gas leak: turn off the gas at the meter, extinguish naked flames, open windows, leave the area and inform the owner or holiday rep immediately. Seek medical advice if you feel unwell. If in Northern Ireland call the Gas Emergency freephone number 0800 002 001.

For further information or to download a free factsheet go to www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/travel or call 0800 408 5500.

Related topics:HolidaymakersNorthern IrelandAppliances