What's carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is an odourless, invisible gas that can be given off by any appliance which burns a fossil fuel such as gas, coal, or oil. It can enter your home if your appliance is faulty or the room is not correctly ventilated, or the chimney or gas flue is blocked.
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas which prevents the flow of oxygen through your blood stream. This can have seriously poisonous effects which can prove fatal. As it is a colourless gas and has no taste or smell, it is very difficult to detect.
Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning
Ensure your gas appliances are regularly checked for safety and serviced by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.
If an appliance is unsafe and condemned for your safety, you should contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to repair or replace it.
Ensure your home is correctly ventilated – never block vents or flues.
Make sure all chimneys and flues are regularly swept and kept clear and clean.
You can buy a carbon monoxide detector from some supermarkets and hardware stores. If you buy a detector, look for one which complies with EN50291, but never rely entirely on these devices.
What are the danger signs?
Gas flames that burn orange or yellow instead of blue.
Sooty stains on or just above appliances.
Solid fuel appliances that burn slowly or go out.
Carbon monoxide sometimes makes people feel ill – but this is not always the case.
If you have any of the following symptoms that get better when you leave home, switch off your appliances and see a doctor immediately:
Drowsiness.
Headaches.
Chest pains.
Sudden giddiness when standing up.
Sickness.
Diarrhoea and stomach pains.
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