News from Westminster
September is always a strange month in politics. Parliament sits for three weeks, and then rises again for the Conference Recess. The House will sit again later this month, and soon after that will be the State Opening of Parliament in early November. This is good news and means that I have more time in the constituency and at home. Please do stop me and say hello as you see me out and about - and as always let me know if there is an event you would like me to attend.
I recently visited Poole Men’s Shed in Canford Heath, and heard about the opportunities they offer to retired and single people in the area. They do some brilliant work for the local community, sharing their experience and skills. If you’re interested in getting involved, you can email them [email protected]
I’ve also been out right across the constituency – meeting and chatting to residents in Bere Regis, Merley, Broadstone, Upton, Colehill and Wimborne.
During September I also raised awareness about Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a gas that can be produced from any appliance that burns gas, LPG, oil, or solid fuel like wood. This is a subject close to my heart, as almost 18 years ago my younger brother was killed by CO poisoning – he went to sleep and never woke up. A faulty gas heater in his room was giving off CO gas – he breathed it in, and he died. You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, so you don’t know if it is in your home. To prevent it, it is really important that you have your chimneys swept before use, and boilers serviced regularly by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
It is also vital that you have a CO detector in your home. These make a loud noise if they detect CO, and could save your life. I have partnered with British Gas, and have a number of detectors to give away for free. Please sign up on my website if you would like one. www.michaeltomlinson.org.uk/gas-safety-week If you have any symptoms of CO poisoning: headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse, and loss of consciousness, don’t delay - get fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances and leave the house. See your doctor immediately or go to hospital. If you think there is an immediate danger, call the Gas Emergency Helpline on 0800 111 999.
