Gas safety is one of those things most of us only think about when something goes wrong. But a few simple checks can make your home in Gnosall safer, cut the risk of carbon monoxide, and avoid nasty surprises. Stafford Borough Council has a handy page that pulls the key advice together, especially if you are renting or you are a landlord.

What good gas safety looks like (for renters and homeowners)

• Only use a Gas Safe registered engineer for gas appliances and boilers.
• Keep an eye out for warning signs: sooty marks, lazy yellow flames (instead of crisp blue), pilot lights that keep going out, or unusual smells.
• Know where your gas shut-off valve is, just in case.

If you rent: ask about the Gas Safety Record

If you are a tenant, your landlord has duties around gas safety checks and paperwork. The easiest starting point is Stafford Borough Councils gas safety guidance - it explains what should be in place and what to do if you are worried.

Stafford Borough Council - Gas safety

Carbon monoxide - the risk you cannot see

Carbon monoxide (CO) has no smell and can make people feel headachey, dizzy, sick or unusually tired. If you suspect CO, treat it seriously - get fresh air, switch off appliances if safe to do so, and seek urgent help. For trusted, step-by-step advice, use the Gas Safe Register guidance.

Gas Safe Register - Gas safety advice

Smell gas or think there is a leak?

If you smell gas or think there may be a leak, do not ignore it. The official emergency advice is to call the gas emergency number immediately - and it is free.

National Gas - Gas emergencies (includes the gas emergency number)

Need local housing or tenancy help?

If your concern is about a rented property (for example, you cannot get a safety check sorted with the landlord), start with the Borough Councils gas safety page above and follow the contact routes from there. For other local updates and community contacts, you can also keep an eye on:

• Gnosall Parish Council
• Stafford Borough Council