Here we find out how to protect your against the deadly Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

As parents we want to shield our children from all the dangers of the big wide world. However, did you know one of the biggest dangers to your child could be going unseen in your house right now?  This silent killer is Carbon Monoxide and it is the most common cause of poisoning in Britain today.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Odourless, colourless and tasteless, Carbon Monoxide is a gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as gas, oil, coal and wood. 

What causes Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

Incorrectly installed, poorly maintained or poorly ventilated cooking and heating appliances can all be the cause of Carbon Monoxide poisoning in the home.

What are the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

Often mimicking symptoms of the common cold or an upset stomach, poisoning can take affect fast particularly in children due to their size and lack of vocabulary, so always be aware of the signs:

•    Headaches
•    Nausea
•    Exhaustion
•    Drowsiness
•    Vomiting
•    Palpitations
•    Chest pains
•    Collapse
•    Neurological problems, which can affect performance, concentration and cognitive behaviour, which in turn can affect school work, behaviour and memory.

How can I protect my children against Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

•    Boiler and heating systems should be installed, maintained and regularly serviced by a competent CORGI registered engineer.
•    Coal burning and natural gas appliances should have flues and chimneys swept.
•    Vents in the home should be kept clear and rooms kept ventilated.
•    Always look for signs on the appliance such as black marks or stains, excessive condensation or a lazy orange pilot flame instead of a crisp blue flame.

•    Audible Carbon Monoxide can be installed to alert you and your family to dangerous levels of Carbon Monoxide in your home before tragedy strikes.

We recommend…

The kite marked Ei204 from Ei Electronics.  Using proven electrochemical cell type sensors, which check Carbon Monoxide concentration every 50 seconds, the battery operated Ei204 is easy to install and maintain.
For more information Click here


For more information on how to protect your family against Carbon Monoxide visit http://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic/co.htm

For a full range of carbon monoxide alarms visit http://www.eielectronics.com/carbon-monoxide-battery/blog