Carbon Monoxide: the Silent Killer - Media Statement
[ Last Updated 7 June 2007 ]
We need to save electricity, so many will turn to gas (natural gas and LPG) as an alternative. Gas is a great fuel. It’s instant, efficient and environmentally friendly. Like any form of energy, treat it with respect to avoid accidents.
A faulty or poorly-maintained gas appliance, or one that is operated in a space that is too small or inadequately ventilated, can produce deadly carbon monoxide. Low levels of this odourless, colourless gas can cause tiredness, headaches or nausea. Continued exposure can lead to unconsciousness, or even death.
Gas appliances need to be used in well-ventilated areas with plenty of fresh air circulating. Flued gas appliances need to have both the flue and appliance checked annually to assure effective and safe operation. Special precautions are called for in bedrooms and bathrooms, where appliances may be unsupervised and the room size may be small. These rooms must have permanent ventilation, and new installed appliances must be specially flued to the outside of the house.
Signs that an appliance is not working correctly, or that the flue is blocked, include:
- A yellow flame, rather than a blue one (except for some 'flame effect' heaters that are designed to burn with a yellow flame).
- Soot deposits in or around the appliance.
- An unpleasant distinctive smell.
If you notice any of these signs, turn off the appliance and contact a licensed Craftsman Gasfitter.
Use gas appliances safely in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions when caravanning or camping. Check that they are in good condition before you leave home.
Never leave gas appliances running while you are asleep. Here are some things to look out for and some tips to help to use gas more safely.
Make sure your gas appliance:
- is properly maintained. Have it, and any flue it may be connected to, checked annually by a licensed Craftsman Gasfitter or authorised service agent
- is well ventilated. Keeping a window open a little is a good idea, as it also helps
remove the moisture produced by gas appliances.
Make sure you:
- Don't use unflued gas appliances in small rooms such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
- Don't use your gas cook-top or oven as a space heater. They are not designed for unsupervised operation and, if used this way, can emit high levels of carbon monoxide.
- Don't use outdoor gas appliances indoors. Gas barbecues, patio heaters, lamps and camping appliances may produce relatively high levels of carbon monoxide and are not suitable for indoor use.
- Don't boil a very large pot of water on a single gas burner. Boil several smaller pots (with their lids on). This reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from incomplete combustion.
- Don't use portable gas appliances inside tents, caravans or motor-homes. Your caravan or motor-home must have adequate ventilation for installed gas appliances. If in doubt, check with a licensed Craftsman Gasfitter.
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