Carbon Monoxide: What You Need to Know

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the silent killer. You can't see it, smell it, or taste it – but it's extremely dangerous. It's released when fuels like gas, coal, oil, or wood don't burn properly. This is most common in the colder months when boilers, fires, and stoves are working harder.

Once breathed in, CO stops your blood from carrying oxygen around your body. Even small amounts can make you seriously unwell, and high exposure can be fatal.

Where Does it Come From?

Carbon monoxide can be produced by any fuel-burning appliance in your home, especially if it's faulty or not properly ventilated. Common culprits include:

Gas boilers
Fireplaces (gas or solid fuel)
Heaters and wood burners
Blocked chimneys or flues
BBQs used indoors (never safe!)
Ovens, water heaters, and car exhausts in attached garages

Symptoms to Look Out For

The tricky part? Symptoms of CO poisoning can feel just like the flu. Here's what to watch for:

Mild symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea, tiredness

Moderate symptoms: confusion, vomiting, weakness, chest pain

Severe symptoms: loss of coordination, breathlessness, fainting, seizures, even death

Symptoms get worse the longer you're exposed, and children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with heart or lung conditions are most at risk.

How to Stay Safe

Fit carbon monoxide alarms

Place one on every floor and near bedrooms/appliances
Look for EN 50291 certification
Test regularly and change batteries yearly
Replace units every 5–7 years

Get appliances checked

Have boilers, fireplaces, and stoves serviced annually by a Gas Safe engineer
Keep chimneys and flues clear and unblocked
Never block ventilation

Use appliances properly

Don't use ovens to heat your home
Never run BBQs, generators, or engines indoors
Don't burn charcoal inside

Ventilate your home

Keep air vents open
Make sure rooms with gas heaters or stoves are well aired
Open chimneys/flues when using fires

Know what to do if the alarm sounds

Open windows and doors right away
Turn off appliances
Leave the property and call emergency services
Don't go back in until it's been checked and cleared

If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Get everyone into fresh air immediately
Call 999 for medical help
Report the issue and don't return until a professional has declared the property safe

Remember: Carbon monoxide is preventable with proper maintenance, regular checks, and working alarms. Don't take risks with your safety – when in doubt, call the professionals.