Health and Safety Executive (HSE) chiefs are warning students in Cheshire to be aware of flu-like symptoms that might be the first signs of exposure to poisonous gas.
Experts say the initial effects of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning are similar to those of flu, and students living in rented accommodation are a high-risk group.
Around 20 people are killed every year by fumes given out by household gas appliances, yet the HSE believes two thirds would have survived if a competent CORGI-registered installer had serviced the offending appliances in the previous year.
HSE North West Head of Operations David Sowerby says: "When fuels like gas, coal, wood or oil don't burn properly carbon monoxide is produced, which is poisonous. You can't see, taste or smell carbon monoxide, but it can kill without warning, often in just a matter of hours.
"Carbon monoxide doesn't know that you were going to get the boiler replaced next week or perhaps that children sleep in the bedroom where the boiler will emit its CO. It will take anyone it can without warning - young, old, rich or poor."
The University of Chester's health and safety adviser, Steve Povey, said: "Carbon monoxide can be a silent killer. Here all of our gas appliances are serviced and tested. Each one of our residences is tested and checked prior to the start of the academic year and the current Gas Safety Certificate is prominently displayed.
"We urge all students to check the certificate for their residence and to contact their landlord if it is missing or out-of-date. The University's accommodation, maintenance, and health and safety
departments are all available to give advice to anyone with any concerns."
David Sowerby added: "If you are in rented accommodation, make sure your landlord gets your gas appliances checked annually by a CORGI-registered installer and if he or she says you need to have work done to make your appliance safe, follow the advice given, as you may not get a second chance.
"Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the gas appliances they own are maintained and they must be checked for safety at least once a year. A record of safety checks must be kept and a copy given to existing tenants and any new tenant before they move in. As a tenant, if you own the gas appliance it is your responsibility to have them checked.
"All CORGI-registered gas installers carry an identity card which tells you which types of appliances they are qualified to work on. If you are present when they call, always ask to see the card to check the installer is CORGI-registered. The reverse of the card details the type of appliances that installer is trained to work on.
"And remember a good supply of fresh air is essential. Do not block off air-bricks or ventilation without first seeking professional advice or allow others such as builders and double glazing firms to do so inadvertently.
Anyone requiring further information can contact HSE's Gas Safety Advice Line on 0800 300 363
(http://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic) or contact CORGI (Council for Registered Gas Installers) on 0870 401 2300 (http://www.corgi-gas-safety.com)
