ens of people die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year, and thousands are harmed. Rising fuel pressures and the current cost of living crisis is placing households at an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, as people are looking for any way to save on heating and cooking costs.
Raising awareness of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO) is crucial and Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week takes place every year towards the end of November, as a whole week dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide with the aim of educating as many people as possible on how to keep them and their households safe from this silent killer. Known as the silent killer, due to its lack of colour, taste and smell, carbon monoxide is invisible to the human senses, which is why CO alarms are so important. Help and advice is available.
Being aware of the symptoms is crucial as they are often mistaken for flu-like illnesses and can include:
- Tension-type headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Breathlessness
- Collapse
- Loss of consciousness
54% of homes in England do not have a carbon monoxide alarm and it is crucial to increase awareness as CO safety messaging, as well as the rules in England.
During Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, fire departments, educators and government are working together to raise awareness about the potential dangers of carbon-monoxide poisoning, the symptoms, sources and prevention methods.
