The head of the North West’s gas emergency service engineers warned Brits to protect themselves from the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO), after it was revealed that almost 27,000 CO incidents occurred during last summer here in the UK.
Cadent, which operates the North West’s 24/7 gas emergency service, confirmed there were 3,442 carbon monoxide callouts in the region between June and September, a season not always associated with the so-called silent killer.
With both a heatwave and the summer holiday season now under way, Cadent issued important advice about keeping safe.
Among the UK-wide incidents were some caused by barbecues, pizza ovens and camping equipment, which can all emit CO if not stored correctly. Incorrect storage can include bringing used barbecues indoors after use, as well as bringing camping equipment, like a portable gas stove, into a zipped tent.
And it’s not just in the home where CO can be a danger this summer. Holiday lets do not always require a CO alarm to be installed – both in the UK and abroad – so it’s always important to check before arriving at what is and isn’t included. If in doubt, it’s recommended that you take a portable CO detector with you in your luggage.
Phil Hendrick, who leads the Cadent team of more than 230 gas emergency engineers in the North West, said: “Every day, we are called out to respond to a CO incident and while the majority of the time we have arrived in time, on some occasions it is sadly too late.
“Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer because it cannot be seen, heard, smelt, touched or tasted. Without having a CO detector, like an alarm, it can be almost impossible to detect, unless you are aware of the symptoms.”
The symptoms of CO poisoning can be associated with those of a cold, flu or a hangover. These include:
Headaches
Nausea
Dizziness
Breathlessness
Collapsing
Loss of consciousness
It is important that every property has a CO detector and that it is placed in every room where there is a fuel-burning appliance, such as a fireplace or boiler. If using a barbecue, do not bring it indoors, even it is cold to the touch.
Phil Hendrick added: “CO poisoning can happen to anyone. If you think you’re suffering from CO poisoning, leave the property immediately and go outside then seek urgent medical attention. You should call the National Gas Emergency number for free on 0800 111 999*.”
