How to spot the signs of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas produced by the incomplete burning of any carbon fuel such as natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This can happen when a gas appliance has been incorrectly fitted, badly repaired, or poorly maintained.
CO can also build up if flues, chimneys, or vents are blocked. Solid fuels, such as coal, wood, petrol, as well as oil, can also produce CO when they burn.CO is known as the ‘silent killer’ because you cannot see, smell, or taste it.
How many people are affected?
Sadly, around 30 people in England and Wales die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year, and many more need hospital treatment.
Find out more about Carbon Monoxide
The main symptoms of poisoning are:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Breathlessness
- Collapse
- Loss of consciousness
Being aware of these symptoms could save your life. There may be other signs that could indicate CO poisoning, such as:
- Children vomiting.
- Symptoms you notice at home lessen when you leave.
- Others in your household experience similar symptoms at a similar time.
- Pets are displaying irritable behaviour. For example, odd behaviour such as aggression, anxiety or fear of noises or other animals.
Carbon monoxide can be deadly or cause serious long-term health problems. Some symptoms of CO poisoning are the same as flu, food poisoning, viral infections, fatigue, or a hangover which makes it easy to mistake this dangerous poisoning for something else.
Carbon Monoxide detectors
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations which came into effect 1st October 2022 require the Council to:
- Install a smoke alarm on every elevation within living accommodation.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms in any rooms used as living accommodation with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
- Repair or replace faulty smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as soon as reasonably practicable.
- As part of the annual gas safety check (or at void stage) the Council will check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working correctly. A new detector and/or alarm will be fitted If faulty or missing.
Ventilation
If you have a gas appliance that needs air to work properly (ventilation), please make sure you don't block or cover these vents in any way. Blocking a vent can stop your appliance from burning gas completely leading to carbon monoxide poisoning. During your yearly gas safety check, the engineer will check your vents. They will make sure the vents are the right size, in good condition, and not blocked.
