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If your children are moving into rented accommodation whilst at university, the distance from the pub is probably their top priority! Whilst this may seem important, safety in rented accommodation should be your main concern. CORGI, the gas safety watchdog, is urging parents to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to follow a few simple steps to keep them safe.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the 'silent killer' because you can't see it, taste it or smell it. It is a highly poisonous gas that can be produced by badly installed or poorly maintained gas appliances. It can infiltrate accommodation through apparently harmless devices, like a boiler or cooker. Students living away from home are a particularly vulnerable group who are at risk from carbon monoxide poisoning. However a recent survey by CORGI revealed that a high percentage of parents don't know how safe their children's student accommodation is.

Landlords have safety obligations to their tenants but you should take responsibility by making simple checks when you drop your children off at the start of term.

For more information to help parents, CORGI has produced this video which guides you around a typical student house, walking you through all the potential hazards that the home contains.