THOUSANDS of homes across Swindon could be silently killing their residents.

That is the message from South Swindon MP Julia Drown, who is backing a campaign by British Gas designed to highlight the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and to make sure people are aware of its symptoms.

Carbon monoxide leaking from flues or appliances is a real danger as it cannot be seen and has no smell.

Every year more than 50 people are killed, and many more suffer injuries from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Poor servicing or installation of appliances, inadequate ventilation or blocked flues are usually to blame.

Carbon monoxide can leak from any appliance using gas, coal, wood or oil and is highly poisonous. The symptoms can be headaches, nausea, vomiting and general listlessness and can be mistaken for flu.

There are some simple ways of reducing the risk:

Keep vents in doors, walls or windows clear and make sure your chimney doesn't become blocked.

Check for signs of staining, sooting or discolouration on or around gas boilers, fires and water heaters.

Check pilot lights and other gas flames that normally burn blue. If the flame is yellow or orange, it could mean that carbon monoxide is present.

Make sure gas appliances are serviced regularly.

Install a carbon monoxide detector.