To coincide with CO awareness week, Mr. Ross announced changes to the Code of Practice of the Approved Coal Merchants Scheme, which now obliges the Coal Merchant members to make their customers aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. “We all have to face up to the fact that proportionately, deaths and incidents surrounding carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of burning solid fuel or wood are high compared with our share of the heating market. Sadly in many cases the cause is neglect or ignorance on behalf of the customer, nevertheless we must shoulder some of the responsibility. We feel that the Trade must play its part in ensuring that customers are aware of the dangers and if they perceive there are actions they should take but are not taking we hope they will step in and offer the appropriate advice.” The Coal Merchants Federation is making available to coal merchants an information leaflet on carbon monoxide to give to customers, a special sticker to affix to coal bunkers to remind customers on maintenance issues and notices for cash and carry outlets. Merchants are also being asked to put a message on prepack coal sacks together with the logo of the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Alliance.