The Invisable Killer

Environmental Health staff from Havering Council will be meeting the public to warn residents about the dangers of carbon monoxide.

Council staff will be urging shoppers in the Liberty centre on Wednesday 19 November to check that their cooking and heating appliances are well maintained as part of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous flammable gas which cannot be seen or smelt and can kill without warning. In the UK, more than 50 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year, and 200 people are seriously injured.

The gas is produced when fossil fuels like gas, oil, coal or wood do not burn fully. This can happen when cooking or heating appliances have not been properly installed or maintained or if appliances have blocked flues or chimneys or are in unventilated places.

Danger signs to look for on boilers, fires and cookers include yellow or orange flames (except for fuel-effect fires), soot or stains around the appliance and a pilot light that frequently blows out.
Symptoms of poisoning are tiredness, drowsiness, headaches, nausea, chest and stomach pains.
As well as ensuring appliances are regularly maintained by CORGI registered engineers and that there is suitable ventilation, residents can buy an audible alarm for between £15 to £35.

Landlords are required by law to make sure gas fittings and flues are checked every 12 months, keep a record of the checks and issue a certificate to tenants.

Carbon monoxide is a killer. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it – but it can kill without warning in a matter of hours. You are particularly at risk when you are asleep. Having your gas appliances checked regularly by CORGI registered engineers will keep you safe.

For more advice call the HSE Gas Safety Advice Line 0800 300 363.