Pembrokeshire County Council trading standards officers are warning consumers in the county to be careful when purchasing and using gas patio heaters.

Recent independent safety tests of a number of patio heaters purchased by trading standards officers in Pembrokeshire have revealed several safety issues.

Tests carried out last year by 'Gardening Which' magazine also found that 10 out of the 12 gas patio heaters that they tested had one or more safety problems.

Consumers are therefore advised to:

• buy gas patio heaters only from a reputable retailer.

• make sure that the item is 'CE marked' which shows that it has been tested to European standards.

• ensure that it comes with assembly and use instructions, and that all instructions and warnings are in English.

• make sure that they can correctly assemble the item. If not, seek advice from the supplier.

• use only the correct type and size of gas bottle with the correct fittings and regulator.

• ensure that the heater is stable and not placed on or near combustible material.

• under no circumstances use the item in an enclosed space.

• ensure that the patio heater has a heating element that is guarded to prevent accidental contact with it.

Anyone who is concerned about the safety of a gas patio heater that they have purchased are advised to contact trading standards at Pembrokeshire County Council on 01437 776209.