subject: Swindon Plumbers Online - Carbon Monoxide Poisoning [print this page] Carbon monoxide poisoning, what should I look for?
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be lethal and should be taken seriously. It can be produced by faulty or poorly serviced appliances. If you suffer from headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, you collapse or lose consciousness then suspect you are suffering carbon monoxide poisoning. You should also note whether your symptoms only occur when you are at home, whether they get better when you leave the house and get worse when you return, and if other members of the household have the same symptoms at the same time. If I experience any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning you must get fresh air immediately, open your doors and windows and turn off all gas appliances. If you know where your main gas inlet valve is then turn it off. See your doctor immediately or go to hospital - let them know that you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. They can do a blood or breath test to check. If you think there is immediate danger, call the gas emergency helpline. Also get a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect your gas appliances and flues to see if there is a dangerous problem.
To avoid a carbon monoxide leak in your home you should check if the flame on your cooker is crisp and blue, lazy yellow or orange flames mean you need to get your cooker checked. Do you have soot or yellow/brown staining around or on appliances, are your pilot lights always blowing out, or do you have an increased amount of condensation inside your windows? If so get your gas appliances checked to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Should I get a carbon monoxide alarm?
Of course you should. Carbon monoxide alarms are available from DIY retailers and cost around 20, but always remember an alarm is no substitute for the correct installation and servicing of your gas appliances. Last year, 14 people died from carbon monoxide poisoning related to gas and, 234 people suffered serious health problems. Be gas safe in your home and never DIY with gas, even if you think it might save you money.
