Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms - Shropshire Towns and Rural Housing.

Your early warning system

All the homes we manage are fitted with smoke and heat detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms where required. These are mains-powered with battery backups and linked to test switches to help keep you safe.

Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms are your early warning system – they’re there to protect you and your household from the dangers, of fire and faulty appliances such as boilers.

What is Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas produced when fuels like gas, coal, wood, or oil don’t burn properly. It can build up indoors if appliances are faulty or rooms aren’t well ventilated.

If you’re concerned about your health, contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice.

In an emergency call 999.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

CO poisoning can feel like flu or food poisoning. Look out for:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Breathlessness
Tiredness or drowsiness
Collapse or loss of consciousness

What to Do if Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Goes Off

If your CO alarm sounds, it’s important to act quickly:

Open windows and doors to ventilate your home.
Turn off all fuel-burning appliances (like boilers or fires) and leave the property immediately.
Do not use electrical switches, smoke or light matches.
Seek medical advice if you feel unwell—call 999 in an emergency.
Call the Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999
Contact us to arrange a service for any appliance that may be causing the issue.

What to do if your smoke alarm goes off

Smoke alarms are designed to alert you early—even before you see or smell smoke. If yours goes off, don’t ignore it.

What to do in the event of a fire

Please visit our Fire Safety page for specific advice on what to do in the event of a fire.

If your alarm keeps sounding or beeps intermittently, it may need a battery change or repair. Contact our repairs team if you’re unsure.