Check your Carbon Monoxide detector

A carbon monoxide detector is not optional in a room with a solid fuel appliance. Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless and kills without warning. Every room where a stove is regularly used needs a functioning detector, and it needs to be checked and replaced on schedule, not left on the wall until the battery dies and you ignore the chirp.

Most battery-powered CO detectors have a seven-year sensor life, after which the electrochemical cell degrades and the unit will no longer detect CO reliably even if it's still powered. The date of manufacture is on the back. If yours is more than seven years old, replace it regardless of whether it seems to be working.

Test the detector monthly using the test button. Position it at head height, not ceiling level. Follow manufacturer guidance on placement relative to the stove and sleeping areas. Having one isn't enough if it's in the wrong room or has a flat battery. If the detector alarms while the stove is running, get everyone out, open windows, and call the Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 even though this is solid fuel, not gas. Then get the flue inspected before using the stove again.