Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Symptoms & Prevention Tips

☠️ Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Symptoms & Prevention Tips

How to Stay Safe from the Silent Killer in Your Home

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, invisible, and deadly gas — often referred to as the silent killer. It can leak from faulty gas appliances and boilers, putting you and your family at serious risk.

In this post, we’ll cover:

  • What carbon monoxide is
  • The most common symptoms of CO poisoning
  • How to prevent it in your home
  • What to do in an emergency

💨 What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas produced when fuel doesn’t burn properly. It’s created by:

  • Gas boilers
  • Gas fires
  • Cookers and ovens
  • Open fires and wood burners
  • Petrol or diesel engines (e.g. in garages)

Because CO has no smell, taste, or colour, it’s impossible to detect without an alarm. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues — or worse.

⚠️ Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The signs of CO poisoning can easily be mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or food poisoning. Here's what to watch for:

🚨 Early symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating

❗ Serious exposure can cause:

  • Chest pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures
  • Death

If multiple people (or pets) in your home are experiencing similar symptoms, especially when indoors — suspect carbon monoxide.

🐾 Signs in Pets

Animals are often affected before humans. If your pet suddenly becomes ill, lethargic, or collapses without warning, this could be a sign of CO in the home.

🛑 What to Do If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

  1. Turn off all appliances (if safe to do so)
  2. Open doors and windows to ventilate
  3. Leave the property immediately
  4. Call the Gas Emergency Number: 0800 111 999 (UK)
  5. Seek medical attention — even if you feel better

Do not go back inside until it’s confirmed safe by a professional.

🔒 How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide in Your Home

✅ 1. Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm

  • Place it near your boiler or any gas appliance
  • Choose an audible, battery-powered unit with a BS EN 50291 certification
  • Test the alarm monthly and replace batteries regularly

Tip: CO alarms are not a substitute for regular servicing!

✅ 2. Get Your Boiler and Appliances Serviced Annually

  • Only use a Gas Safe registered engineer
  • Ensure your gas boiler, fire, cooker, and flue are checked
  • Ask for a Gas Safety Record (CP12) if you're a landlord or tenant

✅ 3. Know the Signs of a Faulty Appliance

  • Sooty stains around the appliance
  • Yellow or orange flames (instead of blue)
  • Condensation in the room
  • Pilot light that keeps going out

✅ 4. Never Block Air Vents or Flues

  • Keep vents unblocked for proper ventilation
  • Ensure your boiler’s flue isn't obstructed outdoors (especially in winter)

✅ 5. Don’t Use Outdoor Equipment Indoors

  • Never use BBQs, generators, or portable heaters inside a house or garage
  • Avoid leaving car engines running in enclosed spaces

👨👩👧👦 Carbon Monoxide Safety for Families

  • Install CO alarms in every room with a fuel-burning appliance
  • Educate children on what the alarm sounds like
  • Ensure everyone knows your emergency action plan

🏁 Final Thoughts

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. The key is regular servicing, installing alarms, and staying alert to the warning signs. Taking a few simple precautions can protect your health — and even save lives.

📞 Need a Carbon Monoxide Alarm or Boiler Safety Check?

At Gas-Go Heating, we offer:

  • Carbon monoxide alarm installation
  • Annual boiler servicing
  • Gas appliance safety inspections
  • CP12 certificates for landlords

📆 Book your gas safety check today and protect your home from hidden dangers.

.....Call us on 02393 782351

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