Carbon monoxide– essential tips from RoSPA and Wales & West Utilities
An increased risk of Carbon Monoxide exposure happens in Winter with more time indoors. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Wales & West Utilities want every household to stay protected from this silent danger.
Carbon Monoxide Research reveals a major gap in safety
Research from RoSPA and Wales & West Utilities shows that one in three homes in the UK lacks a CO detector. This is worrying, as CO exposure peaks in winter when heating and other fuel-burning appliances are in heavy use. Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, and deadly. Each year, CO poisoning sends 4,000 people to A&E, claims 40 lives, and leaves 200 with long-term health issues.
Signs and symptoms to watch for
Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. These can easily be mistaken for flu symptoms but differ as CO poisoning does not cause a fever. Familiarising yourself with these symptoms could save lives, so if anyone shows signs of CO poisoning, get fresh air immediately and seek medical help.
Take preventive measures with a Carbon Monoxide alarm
Carbon monoxide alarms are critical in every home. RoSPA’s Product Safety Advisor, Philip Le Shirley, recommends checking your CO alarm’s functionality. He advises tenants to ensure landlords install working alarms and encourages everyone to perform regular checks. CO alarms are inexpensive, reliable, and could be lifesavers during winter.
Tips to reduce CO risks
- Install a CO alarm: Place alarms in every room with a fuel-burning appliance.
- Service appliances: Arrange annual checks for gas boilers, heaters, and cookers by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Know your rights: Landlords must install CO alarms in rented homes with fuel-burning appliances.
Carbon Monoxide alarm laws across the UK
- England & Wales: All rental and new-build homes with fuel-burning appliances require CO alarms. Landlords must replace faulty alarms when notified.
- Scotland: Since 2022, all homes need CO alarms in rooms with fixed combustion appliances, with landlords responsible for installation in rentals.
- Northern Ireland: Regulations mandate CO alarms in all homes with fossil fuel appliances installed after 2012.
Holiday rentals also have CO requirements, so check with your accommodation provider to ensure safety.
Stay proactive this winter
Simple steps like installing a CO alarm and servicing appliances keep you safe. For more tips on protecting your family, visit RoSPA’s carbon monoxide safety hub and take CO safety seriously this winter.
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