MORE than 100 people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in their homes in the past five years, according to a new report.

The report by engineering firm Advantica was published to coincide with the launch of a public awareness campaign by British Gas.

It claims a further 953 have been treated for the effects of inhaling carbon monoxide over the period.

The findings follow The Northern Echo's call for tighter laws to prevent deaths from carbon monoxide as part of its Silent Killer campaign.

Three years ago, the paper was joined by two North-East families - the O'Neils and the Brennans, who have both lost children to carbon monoxide poisoning, in taking the campaign to Downing Street.

Despite a pledge of action by the then Health and Safety Minister Lord Whitty, changes have yet to be made.

According to the latest findings, winter, and especially the run-up to Christmas, is when occurrences of carbon monoxide poisoning are at their most frequent.

Advantica, which examined 430 cases, found that 11 children were killed and a further 202 treated.

Central heating appliances caused 78 per cent of the incidents investigated, although in 21 per cent of cases the appliance had been regularly serviced by a Council for Registered Gas Installers (Corgi) engineer.

British Gas advises that all gas appliances be installed and regularly maintained by a Corgi engineer, and that people install a British Standards approved carbon monoxide detector.

Chris Bielby, head of quality and standards for British Gas, said: "To see so many children die unnecessarily as a result of poorly maintained gas appliances is tragic."

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are recurring headaches, nausea, stomach pains and fatigue. Signs of faulty appliances include a flame burning yellow or orange and a strange smell.