If you are moving out of home to student accommodation or a rented house or flat BEWARE! Each year 50 people in the UK are killed by “carbon monoxide”.
This gas is a silent killer:-
- it has no smell
- it has no colour
- it has no taste
It is produced by the incomplete combustion of gas, oil, coal or even wood in boilers, valor heaters, solid fuel appliances and open fires.
Steps to carbon monoxide safety
1. Check the flame colour of your appliances, if it’s orange you do have a problem. However, Blue does not necessarily mean it’s safe.
2. Check the flue, is it blocked? Are there creeping plants growing up the walls? Get the flue checked!
3. Is there adequate ventilation? Check your air bricks or trickle vents are not blocked. If the appliances do not have enough air they will produce carbon monoxide.
4. If you are a tenant you should have a safety certificate. The landlord must check the appliances in your accommodation annually. A carbon monoxide detector must be fitted.
5. Do you suffer from unexplained illnesses such as Fatigue, Muscle pains, Upset stomach, Lethargy, Dizziness, Headaches. If you do, go to your doctor and explain the circumstances.
6. If you smell gas fumes in your home ring Transco on 0800 111999. If you are concerned about the safety of any gas appliance ring a CORGI registered engineer or ring CORGI on 0870 401 2300.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend that you have a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your house/student accommodation.
Mains powered carbon monoxide detectors cost around £30 and should be placed at least 5 metres away from the appliance.
Battery operated detectors can be purchased from around £25.
Indicator pads cost around £3 for a pack of two. A black spot develops if levels of carbon monoxide are unsatisfactory. They are not as sensitive as the alarms and only last 3 to 6 months. However, they are an inexpensive second best.
REMINDERS:-
1. If you are moving to rented accommodation ask your landlord for a safety certificate for the boiler/appliance.
2. Wherever you live, check there is a working carbon monoxide and smoke detector.
