Carbon Monoxide - Know The Signs

What is CO?

CO is a poisonous, colourless and odourless gas that is produced when carbon fuels are burnt.

How is CO produced?

CO can be produced when a gas appliance has been incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained. It also occurs if flues, chimneys, or vents are blocked.

Recognising
the symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Breathlessness
  • Collapse
  • Loss of Consciousness

Prevention

Have your gas and other solid fuel burning appliances serviced by a Gas Safe engineer every year

The Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas engineers who are qualified to work safely and legally on gas appliances.

£15

the approximate price you can pick up an alarm that alerts you from your local DIY store or supermarket. Alternatively contact your energy supplier.

0800 408 5500

the number to call to check your engineers ID and that he or she is on the Gas Safe Register. Visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk for more information.

What to do if you suspect CO poisoning

Turn off gas appliances immediately, open doors and windows and leave the property.

See your doctor immediately or go to hospital and let them know that you suspect CO poisoning. They can do a blood or breath test to check.

Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 A qualified engineer will arrive within one hour if a gas escape is suspected inside a property, or two hours outside a property. They will check for gas and make the property safe.

Get a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect your gas appliances and flues to see if there is a fault before they carry out the appropriate repairs.

0800 111 999

the number to call if you smell gas or suspect CO poisoning.