RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
November 17, 1998
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING FOR WINTER
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents today issued a reminder for people to be aware of the potential dangers of carbon monoxide gas following the deaths of two teenagers in Scotland.
The silent, invisible and deadly killer gas can be given off by any fossil fuel appliance (gas or solid), if there is not enough fresh air to promote efficient combustion.
Mary Reilly, RoSPA’s Scottish Home Safety Manager, said: "With the onset of winter weather, we are urging people to get their heating systems serviced to combat the risks of CO poisoning."
Carbon monoxide causes a death almost every week because of un-serviced boilers or blocked flues, and can go undetected while people work around the house, relax, or are asleep. It has no colour, no smell and no taste.
Causes of poisoning are not enough fresh air in the room, a blocked chimney or flue, or if the equipment is not working properly. Signs to look out for with gas appliances are staining or deposits of soot around the burner, and yellow or orange flames, rather than the correct blue.
With solid fuel appliances, a smell of fumes, or a fire that is sluggish or tends to go out, are indications that something is wrong. In such cases, the appliance should be turned off immediately and an expert called in.
To lower the risks of poisoning, look for approved British Standard marks when you buy an appliance, have it installed by an expert, never try to repair or alter it yourself, have it regularly serviced, and make sure rooms are well ventilated.
The Scottish Office has recently issued information to GPs and primary health care teams describing the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning in an effort to raise awareness among the medical profession. Early symptoms which can be spotted, include:
- feeling drowsy
- a slight headache
- feeling dizzy when you stand up
- pain in your chest
- tiredness
- palpitations
- diarrhoea
- stomach pains.
Anyone with these symptoms should immediately turn off the appliance and seek medical attention.
