The National Consumer Agency has put a call out to locate some 5,000 gas cookers which, in certain circumstances, can cause carbon monoxide poisoning if they are not used in accordance with the user instructions and the grill door is closed when the grill is in operation. There were 293 of these cookers sold in Mayo. For specified makes and models of gas cooker, with a separate oven and grill, operating the grill with the grill door closed can cause extremely dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to be produced, which can cause serious injury or death.
More than 7,500 cookers have been identified as being affected but despite earlier warnings about the dangers and extensive efforts by the manufacturers to contact affected customers, only 2,200 have been located to date. Of those cookers which have been located, the manufacturers have also been experiencing difficulties in making arrangements to call to some consumers and make the required adjustment to affected cookers.
“There have been six deaths to date in the UK and Ireland linked to this issue and so we are putting a major push on finding the remaining 5,300 cookers,” said Ann Fitzgerald, chief executive of the NCA. “Despite the efforts of the manufacturers, including advertising, mail outs with Bord Gáis bills, and direct liaison with retailers and consumers to locate these cookers and have adjustments made to make them safe, only 2,200 have been located to date.
“Given the serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if the grill is operated while the door is closed, we are urgently calling on consumers to check their cookers today. Anyone who might have one of these cookers should immediately contact the manufacturers to arrange for a modification to be made which is free of charge. It is essential that people do not use the cookers as heaters or for any other purpose than cooking. People who may have concerns can also contact the NCA for information.”
The NCA is urging all consumers with gas cookers, including landlords and letting agents, to check if their cooker is one of the makes or models affected (list below ); if so, contact the relevant manufacturer helpline numbers listed below to arrange for a free modification and under no circumstances operate the grill with the grill door closed – it must always be in the open position.
These appliances are designed for cooking purposes only and must not be used as a space heater or for any other purpose.
The models include New World, Flavel, Leisure, and Beko. Further information and contact details of the manufacturers can be found on the NCA website www.consumerconnect.ie or call 1890 432 432.
