CO Detectors

CO Detectors

Each year in the UK, a startling statistic emerges from the health ministry: there are a large number of people killed by carbon monoxide poisoning. The numbers vary, depending on the year, but on average 50 people die and another several hundred are injured each year from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Dubbed "the silent killer" by health care professionals, carbon monoxide may be one of the most poisonous substances that you can encounter in your day to day life. Because you cannot taste, see, or smell carbon monoxide it is important to consider purchasing a carbon monoxide detector. It is critical to take the time to protect yourself against the dangers and risks associated with carbon monoxide.

CO Checklist

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a subject that people seem to have limited knowledge about. As a result, it is important to understand what steps you can take throughout your home in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

Check the flame colour of your appliances - If the flame is orange, there is a problem that should be addressed immediately.
Is there adequate ventilation in your home? If your appliances do not have enough air flow, carbon monoxide may become trapped.
Have you had annual maintenance on your appliances recently? The older your appliance gets without a check-up, the more likely the appliance may produce harmful fumes
Has your flue been checked and cleaned recently?
Be cautious of adequate ventilation for a horizontal gas grill
Install a carbon monoxide detector

The Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Most people don't even realize they have been poisoned by carbon monoxide until it is too late. However, there are many classic symptoms and, if made aware, that can help you realize the severity of the carbon monoxide poisoning. Ask yourself, do you suffer from any unexplained illnesses such as:

Fatigue
Muscle Pain
Unexplained Exhaustion
Sour Stomach
Headaches
Dizziness

If you believe you may be suffering from any one or more of these symptoms, contact your doctor and get a CohB test. Interestingly, experts explain that CO in your blood will deplete the longer you take to receive the CO test. Try to get tested immediately.

Preventing Disaster

If you are a new tenant or a new home buyer, make sure you take the time to evaluate the history of your new house or apartment. Ask your landlord if they check the appliances and require them to provide a safety certificate approving the use of such appliances. It is required by law to inform all tenants of the necessary safety check-ups.

Get a Carbon Monoxide Detector

Protect your family and home from a preventable danger - get a carbon monoxide detector. Generally inexpensive and highly effective, carbon monoxide detectors detect any change in pressure or air quality associated with carbon monoxide poisoning. If you do not have one in your home yet, go to your local hardware store today to purchase a detector. It may be the one purchase that could save your life.

Keeping your home and your family safe is the top priority. Take care of both by following a regular maintenance plan with all of your appliances.

Protect and maintain your home with reliable and professional care from British Gas' many Care and Repair packages. Learn More.

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