Halton householders are urged to make a new year’s resolution that could save their lives.

Residents are invited to sign up for a free annual gas safety check reminder service at www.staygassafe.co.uk.

In the last three years, one in six homes inspected by the Register has been found to have an unsafe gas appliance, which, if left unchecked, could have resulted in a gas fire, leak, explosion or CO poisoning.

More than 1,000 injuries and 31 deaths have occurred during this time due to gas related incidents.

Sarah Hill, stakeholder manager for Gas Safe Register, said: “Poorly fitted and badly maintained gas appliances pose a real threat to people’s homes and lives.

“Those who sign up to the free reminder service will be sent an email telling them when their gas appliances are due for an annual safety check.”

A survey from Gas Safe Register also reveals that six in 10 people are planning some form of home improvement in 2014.

With more than one in 10 intending on getting a new boiler, one in 11 intending on fitting a new hob and nearly one in 20 planning an extension.

By law, all gas work must be carried out by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.

Sarah added: “The New Year may be a time when we consider putting in that extension or getting a new hob or boiler fitted.

“If you’re thinking about making a home improvement, big or small, it’s vital that you consider what the gas risks may be and ensure that any work which involves gas is carried out by a competent, legal Gas Safe registered engineer.”

You find a registered engineer in your area by calling Gas Safe Register on 0800 408 5500 or by visiting www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk If you smell gas or think there might be a gas leak, call the free 24 hour national gas emergency number immediately on 0800 111 999.