Carbon monoxide (CO) is often dubbed the “silent killer” – and for a terrifyingly good reason. In the UK alone, approximately 4,000 people attend emergency departments and 440 are hospitalised for CO poisoning each year, with around 40 deaths reported annually. This invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas claims lives and causes serious illness every year in the UK. At ResiSure, we’re dedicated to making every rental property in the UK safe, and that includes arming you with the knowledge to prevent the insidious threat of carbon monoxide poisoning in your properties.
Understanding how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning at home, is paramount for property providers and tenants alike. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about safeguarding lives.
What is Carbon Monoxide and Where Does It Come From?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels like gas, oil, wood, and coal don’t burn properly. This can happen with faulty or unserviced heating appliances such as boilers, gas fires, and open fires. Additionally, blocked flues or chimneys prevent CO from escaping safely, and poorly ventilated spaces can lead to a dangerous build-up of the gas if appliances are in an area with insufficient airflow. Crucially, never use portable generators or barbecues indoors – these should only be used in well-ventilated outdoor areas. Furthermore, damaged or incorrectly installed appliances, including cookers, water heaters, and tumble dryers, can also be sources of CO.
The Dangers: Recognising the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The insidious nature of carbon monoxide lies in its stealth, making it vital to understand how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The symptoms can be easily mistaken for common ailments like the flu or food poisoning, making it incredibly dangerous. You should look out for headaches, which are often the first and most common symptom. Other signs include dizziness and nausea, a feeling of being lightheaded or sick, along with general weakness and fatigue. Some individuals may experience shortness of breath, and in severe cases, this can lead to collapse and loss of consciousness, which can tragically result in death. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get fresh air immediately by opening windows and doors, and then evacuate the building. Seek urgent medical attention.
How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning at Home: Your Action Plan
Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to a threat as serious as carbon monoxide. Here’s what every homeowner, property provider, and tenant in the UK needs to do.
First and foremost, install audible carbon monoxide alarms. This is arguably the most crucial step. Place alarms in rooms with fuel-burning appliances (boilers, fires, gas cookers) and in sleeping areas. Always ensure they meet British Standards (BS EN 50291) and are regularly tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For landlords in England and Wales, this is a legal requirement in rented properties, making this imperative for landlords, social housing providers, and student accommodation providers, to name a few.
Secondly, regularly service fuel-burning appliances. Have all gas appliances (boilers, cookers, fires) serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. For oil-fired appliances, use an OFTEC-registered technician for annual servicing. If you have solid fuel appliances, ensure your chimneys and flues are swept and inspected regularly by a HETAS-approved sweep.
Next, ensure proper ventilation. Never block air vents; make sure air bricks, vents, and flues are clear and not obstructed by anything like furniture, insulation, or even bird nests. It’s also vital never to seal up chimneys or flues, as these are essential for safe appliance operation. When using fuel-burning appliances, especially gas cookers, always ensure there’s adequate ventilation by opening windows and doors.
It’s also important to know your appliances. If you have an old gas appliance with a pilot light, check that it’s burning with a strong blue flame. A yellow or orange flame indicates incomplete combustion and a potential CO risk. Also, be aware of black or sooty marks around an appliance or on walls, as these can be a sign of incomplete combustion. Crucially, never attempt to repair or service gas appliances yourself; always use a qualified professional.
Finally, use fuel-burning appliances safely. This means never using barbecues or portable generators indoors – the fumes can quickly build up to dangerous levels. Similarly, do not use gas ovens for heating, as they are not designed for this purpose and can produce carbon monoxide.
ResiSure: Supporting Safer Homes for Tenants and Landlords
At ResiSure, we understand the complexities of maintaining safe and compliant rental properties. Our technology provides property providers with vital insights into living environments, empowering them to be proactive in addressing potential hazards, especially as it pertains to air quality, mould and humidity. The innovative platform provides landlords with unparalleled insights into living environments, utilising data-driven approaches to understand and manage potential hazards before they escalate.
Imagine having the power to proactively monitor and assess environmental conditions within your properties. ResiSure’s cutting-edge tech allows you to stay ahead of problems, rather than react to them. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about empowering you with the tools to create healthier, safer homes. By integrating with and understanding key environmental factors, our system helps you identify areas that might contribute to various issues, including those that could indirectly impact appliance safety and ventilation.
By ensuring your property meets safety standards, including proper CO alarm installation and appliance maintenance, you’re not just adhering to regulations; you’re actively protecting the safety and well-being of your tenants. So don’t let this silent killer claim another victim across your portfolio. Take proactive steps today to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and ensure your home is a safe haven for everyone – get in touch below.