Carbon Monoxide: safety at home
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas made by fossil fuels not burning completely. This includes gas, oil, wood, petrol and coal.
With no smell or taste, CO can go unnoticed. This means exposure can be fatal or cause permanent damage to your health.
Symptoms of CO poisoning
Early symptoms of CO poisoning can be similar to other common illnesses. Symptoms can include:
- nausea
- headaches or dizziness
- breathlessness
- pains in the stomach or chest
- tiredness
- loss of consciousness
- problems with vision
- erratic behaviour
How to keep CO safe
Get an alarm
You can buy CO alarms from most DIY stores, online and even supermarkets. An alarm will cost around £10 to £15 but could save your life.
Keep an eye on the flame
A flame with no concerns should burn crisp and blue. An orange, lazy flame is worth checking!
Ventilation
If your gas appliances do not have enough air supply, CO could be produced. Check if your appliances have enough ventilation to burn in the correct way.
Get checked
Every year have your gas appliances checked. A Gas Safe registered engineer should make sure the following are safe to use:
- cooker
- boiler
- fire
- any other appliances using gas
If you are a homeowner and registered for the Priority Services Register, you may be eligible for a free annual gas safety check.
Check with your supplier for eligibility.
Landlords and tenants
Landlords must have the gas appliances in the property checked annually. Landlords should also ensure tenants are safe by fitting a CO alarm.
Warning
If you suspect CO poisoning
- Turn off all gas appliances in the home.
- Open doors, windows and get outside as quickly as possible.
- Visit your doctor or hospital straight away.
- Call the Gas Emergency Helpline on 0800 111 999.
Free support
For free support, contact your Local Fire and Rescue Service.
If you are a tenant, your landlord has a duty of care to protect your safety.
Last reviewed by Scope on: 26/09/2024
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