Carbon Monoxide - a deadly threatFebruary 2009CARBON MONOXIDE - A DEADLY THREAT
The silent killer It seems that every year more than 50 people in the UK die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and an additional 200 people are seriously injured each year. Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no taste, smell or colour. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because there is no evidence of its presence. So until they started feeling ill, these people had no idea anything was wrong. Most carbon monoxide poisoning appears to be the result of faulty household gas appliances. In the midst of a cold winter, many central heating systems are being cranked up to their maximum putting most strain on the equipment. There is a real risk of carbon monoxide from gas boilers and appliances that use gas or solid fuel such as furnaces, heaters and wood burning stoves if they have not been properly installed and regularly maintained. Signs of carbon monoxide include staining, soot or discoloration on gas appliances. Symptoms of mild poisoning include nausea, muscle/head aches, light-headedness and flu-like effects; larger exposures can lead to significant toxicity of the central nervous system and even death. It is important not to ignore these symptoms. If you are in any way suspicious that either yourself or a relative may be experiencing symptoms, speak to a doctor quickly. While anyone is susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning, experts agree that older people, unborn babies, small children and those with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable to carbon monoxide and are at the greatest risk for death or serious injuries. Observing the following five steps will help protect you and your home:
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