AN MP is urging people to take steps against the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Mike Thornton, pictured, Eastleigh MP, wants residents to install a carbon monoxide alarm.

The Department of Health estimates that 40 people are killed and at least 4,000 are treated in hospital every year because of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel such as gas, coal or wood doesn’t burn properly – usually because of a faulty boiler or other appliance or because ventilation has been blocked. An alarm costs about £15.