FIVE people – two from Glossop – have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in just six years in the High Peak.
This compares to 12 deaths a year in the entire country from the poisoning known as the ‘silent killer’, new figures have revealed.
The high death rate has been put down to poor ventilation. Fewer people open their windows in the High Peak during the winter months because it is so cold outside.
An investigation is underway into a third possible victim from Glossop who died in December.
MP Tom Levitt has reacted to the news by urging High Peak residents to protect themselves against the deadly threat.
Mr Levitt, who is supporting the new ‘Carbon Monoxide – be Alarmed!’ campaign, said it was now time to take firm action.
He said: "Every householder in High Peak should make sure that they have an alarm and that their fuel-burning appliances are serviced each year by a professional. I would like to see all new homes fitted with an alarm and see landlords obliged to provide an alarm in order to get their annual gas safety certificate."
The campaign claims almost nine in 10 households in the High Peak are putting themselves at risk of poisoning by not having an audible carbon monoxide alarm.
Christine McGourty, a spokeswoman for the campaign, said it was time to save lives.
She said: "We regularly hear about members of the public whose lives have been saved by a carbon monoxide alarm – it’s the only way to detect this killer. You can buy an alarm from around £15 at DIY stores, supermarkets, high street shops or directly from energy suppliers. A number of retailers will also be offering special discounts in support of our campaign this January."
The campaign recommends four simple steps to keep safe:
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel-burning appliances are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired, poorly maintained or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.
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