Don’t ignore the Silent Killer this Winter!

With Winter fast approaching, and us all beginning to think about turning up the
thermostat, lighting the fire or switching on the heating, it’s a good time to make sure your home is protected against Carbon Monoxide (CO).

Commonly referred to as the ‘silent killer’ Carbon Monoxide cannot be smelt, seen or tasted and at this time of year it’s common to see a rise in the number of CO poisoning cases. Potential sources of CO can include house fires, defective boilers, open fires, barbeques and chemicals.

Symptoms of CO poisoning vary from case to case and can be anything from flu like symptoms, headaches and drowsiness, to stroke symptoms, unconsciousness and ultimately death. Remember you can check your symptoms using NHS Direct at anytime.

There are many ways you can guard against CO in your home, but the simplest are to ensure that your boiler is regularly serviced, and that you have a CO detector fitted in your home. So whether you are a homeowner or renting, remember that detectors are unobtrusive, simple to install and available from most DIY stores.

You should also remember to test them regularly and change batteries as required. More information about CO, and CO poisoning prevention can be found on the NHS Choices website.

Dozens of people every year die as a result of the ‘silent killer’, and many more are left with severe disabilities, so don’t ignore the risk this Winter!