What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced by incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, including gas, oil, wood and coal.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can mimic many common ailments and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simple tiredness. Symptoms to look out for include:
headaches or dizziness
breathlessness
nausea
loss of consciousness
tiredness
pains in the chest or stomach
erratic behaviour
visual problems
For more information visit the NHS or telephone NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
If you or your family experience any of the above symptoms and believe you may have been exposed to carbon monoxide, you should seek urgent medical advice from either your GP or an A&E department.
What should I do if I think my appliance is spilling carbon monoxide?
Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999
Switch off the appliance and shut off the gas supply at the meter control valve
Open all doors and windows to ventilate the room
For more information visit the Health & Safety Executive web site
http://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic/co.htm
South Wales Heating
Central Heating & Boiler Maintenance
Tel: 01656 771091 e.mail: swhneath@gmail.com
