Council raises awareness of dangers of the 'silent killer'

FOLLOWING the tragedy in Castlerock in which two Newtownabbey teenagers lost their lives, the Mayor of Newtownabbey has joined Home Accident Prevention Newtownabbey to raise awareness of the risk of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.
By The Newsroom
Published 13th Aug 2010, 17:38 BST
Updated 17th Aug 2010, 14:43 BST

Speaking about the issue, Alderman Paula Bradley said: “As a borough we are still coming to terms with the loss of Aaron Davidson and Neil McFerran.

“This heartbreaking tragedy highlights why it is so important for each and every one of us to be aware of the dangers of this silent killer.

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“The simple step of installing an audible Carbon Monoxide detector could significantly reduce the risk of CO poisoning in your home.”

CO can kill in minutes and is produced in dangerous amounts when a carbon based fuel like wood, coal, oil or gas are burned without sufficient air supply.

When you breathe in Carbon Monoxide it prevents the body form absorbing oxygen, causing oxygen starvation leading to severe damage and even death. Common sources of Carbon Monoxide are:

l Vehicles running in confined spaces

l Blocked chimneys and flues

l Portable fuel burning heaters

l Fuel-powered tools in enclosed spaces

l Barbeques used in enclosed spaces

l Defective gas appliances.

Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” as it cannot be seen and has no taste or smell. But there are warning signs to look out for, including:

l Coal or wood fires that burn slowly or go out

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l Sooty stains on or just above oil or gas burning appliances

l A gas boiler flame that normally burns blue burning orange or yellow instead.

Indicators of Carbon Monoxide poisoning include flu symptoms without a fever, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness or confusion.

If you are suffering these symptoms, put out your fire or turn off the appliance, ventilate your home and see your doctor at once.

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To help prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning all heating appliances should be serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Also make sure that chimneys are swept regularly, especially before lighting a fire if it hasn’t been used for some time.

Keep air vents clear and never block them up to prevent a draught.

If you live in rented accommodation, check with your landlord to make sure they have appliances checked annually.

Electronic Carbon Monoxide detectors are becoming more widely available with prices now starting at only 10.

For further information contact Home Accident Prevention Newtownabbey on 028 9034 0160 or visit www.co-awareness.co.uk

Related topics:CouncilPaula BradleyMayor