Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

On Tuesday 25th January, Valerie Vaz MP attended an event in Parliament to raise awareness of the deadly threat of Carbon Monoxide Poisioning.  New research from the Carbon Monoxide – Be Alarmed! campaign shows that 68% of households in the West Midlands could be at risk of poisoning by not having an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm. 

Carbon Monoxide is known as the silent killer as it is a highly poisonous gas with no colour, taste or smell.  It is therefore impossible to detect without an alarm.  It is produced when fuel-burning appliances, such as gas boilers, cookers or fires, are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Valerie is supporting the Carbon Monoxide – Be Alarmed! campaign which encourages people to ensure they have an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm and that they have all fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a registered and qualified engineer.  The campaign is also calling for a requirement for all new homes to be fitted with an alarm, and is encouraging landlords to provide an alarm in their properties. 

Carbon Monoxide alarms are available at DIY stores, supermarkets, high street shops or directly from energy suppliers.  

The Carbon Monoxide – Be Alarmed! campaign recommends four simple steps to keep your household safe:

1. 1. Fit an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm which should be marked with the ‘EN50291′ safety standard
2. 2. Have fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a registered professional
3. 3. Don’t block ventilation and get chimneys swept at least once a year
4. 4. Learn about the danger signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning at www.co-bealarmed.co.uk