Today marks the start of Gas Safety Week, the UK-wide campaign dedicated to raising awareness of gas safety and helping keep people safe in their homes.
Throughout the week, Liberty colleagues will be hosting events across the country, including in Manchester, West Lancashire, Leeds, Birmingham, Crawley, Kent and Exeter, helping residents understand the criticality of gas safety, the importance of allowing access for servicing and maintenance, and the simple steps everyone can take to keep themselves, their families and their communities safe.
Why gas safety must always come first
Gas plays an essential role in keeping millions of homes warm and providing hot water. But because it is such a familiar part of everyday life, it can be easy to overlook the importance of keeping gas appliances and heating systems safe.
This Gas Safety Week, the message is simple – ‘Take no chances’. It is a timely reminder that when it comes to gas safety, risks should never be ignored.
At Liberty, gas safety and compliance are at the heart of what we do. Our teams work across thousands of homes, helping housing providers maintain safe, reliable and compliant heating systems for residents. We understand that effective gas safety is about more than meeting regulatory requirements – it is about protecting people in their homes. That is why, at Liberty, every week is Gas Safety Week. We remain focused on raising standards, promoting best practice and helping keep residents safe all year round.
Safety starts with regular checks
Poorly maintained, incorrectly installed or faulty gas appliances can present serious risks, including gas leaks, fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Many of these risks can be prevented through regular servicing, maintenance and professional checks. For landlords and housing providers, ensuring gas appliances and heating systems are maintained and serviced by appropriately qualified professionals is a fundamental responsibility.
For residents, there are also some simple but important steps to take. Never attempt to repair or alter a gas appliance yourself. Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for installation, servicing and repairs, and make sure you know where your gas emergency control valve is located.
It is equally important to recognise the warning signs. Unusual flames, smells or sounds from an appliance, or soot and staining around it, could indicate a problem and should always be checked by a qualified professional.
Don’t overlook carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most serious risks associated with gas. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless, meaning it cannot be detected without an alarm. CO can be produced when fuels such as gas do not burn correctly. Symptoms of exposure can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, tiredness and confusion.
Having a working carbon monoxide alarm is an important safeguard, but it should never replace proper appliance servicing and maintenance. Prevention remains the best protection.
Take no chances
Gas Safety Week is an opportunity for everyone involved in keeping homes safe – from residents and landlords to housing providers and heating professionals – to stop and ask whether enough is being done to prevent avoidable risks. Gas safety is a shared responsibility, and sometimes taking no chances simply means taking a few minutes to check. Make sure appliances are maintained, alarms are working and any concerns are reported promptly.
We are continuing to prioritise resident engagement and work with our clients and customers to understand the challenges of gaining access, how we can work together to provide innovative solutions, flexible appointments and share insights to improve access by raising awareness of gas safety and the importance of annual checks.
For more information and practical advice, visit the Liberty Customer Hub, where you can find guidance on gas safety, carbon monoxide awareness and other ways to help keep your home safe.
