Avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning

Article date : 10/03/2010

Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous substances on the planet and poses an even greater risk to people as it is virtually undetectable when relying on the human senses.

Indeed, the gas is odourless, colourless and tasteless but can prove fatal when inhaled.

However, poisoning is frequently misdiagnosed by medical professionals as its symptoms are so similar to those arising from less threatening illnesses, such as the flu.

In light of all this, it is worth taking every step possible to ensure a household is safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Reading Post advises installing a carbon monoxide detector so that homeowners are alerted should a leak be detected, while making sure a property is well ventilated is also recommended.

Britons should also ensure they have at least one boiler service every year, ideally ahead of the winter.

A boiler engineer from Gas Safe Register should be able to identify whether the appliance poses a safety risk, while such a professional should also be contacted if Britons need a new boiler installed.

Written by Jasper Cullen

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