Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide is one of the most poisonous gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. Normal gas fire or gas appliance operation produces harmless gases but lack of oxygen can result in Co production. Properly balanced air will result in Carbon Dioxide output, Carbon Monoxide will result if the level of oxygen is restricted with reduced flow of air or a blocked flue. Many people suffer from Carbon Monoxide poisoning each year although the implementation of strict gas appliance ventilation regulations and access to professional maintenance and servicing has cut the number of deaths to thirty.
What will I observe if I have a Carbon Monoxide Gas issue in my home?
Co output is often a result of incomplete burning and this can be seen as the deposit of carbon black discoloring surfaces near your gas appliances. You can also check pilot lights and other gas flames that normally burn blue through an inspection chamber if fitted. If the pilot light in your system starts burning yellow you should have the boiler serviced by a trained engineer without delay.
How do I protect my family from Carbon Monoxide and likely poisoning?
As mentioned Co is produced when a gas flame burns with insufficient oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere. Checking the components of the exhaust gases should be a standard part of a gas appliance maintenance visit from a trained engineer and this will give early warning of any ventilating system issues. To ensure that you get expert appliance service you should see that the engineer is CORGI-registered. You can now buy electronic, battery powered, Co detectors which sound an alarm on sensing of high levels of the gas. Gas appliances require enough air and you should check that this is satisfactory, one particular danger area is the covering up of air vents in the summer through home decorating and the warehousing of surplus items. Also regularly inspect for plants which might be growing near a vent outside as over the course of a year they can also block them. chimney air can become blocked in the summer by a birds nest and you may not notice id a fire is not used in the summer so a visual inspection should be incorporated in your household maintenance plans. Smoke and Co detectors are constructed to make different audible sounds when triggered off. Take some time to learn the differences so that you are aware of what type of emergency you face when one of your detectors is set off.
What are the dangers associated with Carbon Monoxide Gas Poisoning?
Co is a quiet killer so be do not delay if you see any warning marks. Do not read this or other articles and form your own assessment. Take action to protect yourself and your household quickly. Anyone can fall victim to Carbon Monoxide poisoning, even the fit and healthy. Your Pets could also be injured or worse.
What should I look for as early signs of poisoning from Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide poisoning exhibits symptoms which can appear like other sicknesses, for example: -
- ongoing head aches
- instability
- little energy
- urge to vomit
Stop using any gas appliances if you notice such signs and see to it that there is good air to the room. As a precaution ask everyone to leave the room and get the appliances inspected by a properly qualified (CORGI) plumber.