Carbon monoxide poisoning kills around 50 people every year

Findings from a survey suggest that fewer than one in five people have alarms in their homes to alert them to what is dubbed the silent killer.

It is estimated that only 18% have installed alarms and 60% would be unlikely to be able to detect a leak.

The gas, which claims dozens of lives, is colourless and odourless.

The study suggests 76% of Scots do not know that 50 people die in the UK each year from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Despite numerous safety campaigns most people in Scotland have yet to go out and purchase a CO alarm. Kevin Bishop Safety expert

Researchers also claim that while 24% of people have had symptoms of possible poisoning, 64% of them failed to see a doctor.

In addition, 43% of householders in Scotland admitted they knew nothing about the risks from carbon monoxide.

Expert, Kevin Bishop, said: "Despite numerous safety campaigns and front page newspaper stories, most people in Scotland have yet to go out and purchase a CO alarm.

"Carbon Monoxide takes the lives of dozens of people each year and affects thousands more, but is still not taken seriously."

Gas deaths

He added: "There is good news, however. Every Scot that participated in the survey knew at least one of the possible causes and symptoms of CO poisoning.

"Compared to 28% of people in Wales who have no idea of any causes or symptoms, we were reassured by these results."

A campaign to reduce the number of deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning was launched in March.

Leaflets and posters publicising the flu-like symptoms of CO poisoning were distributed to GP surgeries, health centres and Citizens Advice Bureaux across Scotland.

Scottish Gas director Tom Laidlaw said: "If anyone does suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, they should switch off all gas appliances, ventilate the property and then contact the gas emergency line number 0800 111 999."