Three pensioners died from carbon monoxide poisoning

The county's fire service is giving away 100 free carbon monoxide detectors and has urged residents to have gas and heating appliances checked yearly.

The move follows an incident in January 2006 when three pensioners died at a house in North Hykeham, near Lincoln.

They died after the gas built up in their poorly ventilated house.

Dan Marsland from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue said people needed to make sure they had detectors in their homes.

"This is called the silent killer because it doesn't smell of anything, doesn't taste of anything and you probably won't be aware that you're being affected by it.

"Detectors are now portable so you can keep them with you wherever you go...to make sure your family stays safe," he said.