Be aware of dangers from carbon monoxide
Date published:
Regular checks and services
If you use an appliance that is fuelled with gas, oil, coal, kerosene, peat or wood you are potentially at risk from carbon monoxide poisoning.
The best way to protect yourself, and others, from the dangers of carbon monoxide is to make sure all fuel-burning appliances are installed, maintained and used properly.
A registered engineer should check and service them at least once a year.
A registered technician should inspect all chimneys and flues once a year and sweep them, if needed.
You should do the same to any appliances (including gas cookers and petrol-powered generators) you use in holiday homes, caravans and on board boats.
The following pages have useful information about gas safety and how to arrange getting an appliance serviced:
Carbon monoxide alarm
You should install an audible carbon monoxide alarm.
These alarms have a limited life span, so if you already have one check it to see if it is working properly. It might be time to buy a new one.
Carbon monoxide alarms can help alert you to the dangers if CO gas escapes, but must never be seen as a substitute for the proper installation, maintenance, servicing and cleaning of appliances.
Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
It can also cause long-term health problems if you are exposed to low doses over a long period of time.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu (but without a raised temperature) or simple tiredness.
Signs to look out for include:
- headaches
- nausea and vomiting
- exhaustion
- drowsiness
- dizziness and light-headedness
- flu-like symptoms
- palpitations (feeling heart beat oddly)
- chest pain
- losing consciousness
If you think you have symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, you should:
- immediately turn off all appliances
- go outside
- seek medical help
You can find out more at this link:
Further information on carbon monoxide can be found on the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland website.