Carbon Monoxide Awareness week 2023
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) are supporting Carbon Monoxide Awareness week by reminding you of the importance of installing and regularly checking carbon monoxide alarms.
Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste, or smell. Fuel burning appliances such as stoves, fires, boilers and water heaters can produce carbon monoxide if they are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired, or poorly maintained or if flues, chimneys, or vents are blocked.
The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning can often be overlooked or mistaken. The common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, tiredness, headaches, nausea and generally feeling unwell. It is often mistaken for something else such as a common cold, flu and now Covid-19.
If you experience any symptoms or your Carbon Monoxide alarm sounds:
- Switch off the pump or generator.
- Open doors and windows.
- Get fresh air immediately.
- Leave the house.
- Call the emergency services.
- Seek medical advice, if feeling unwell.
Home Fire Safety Manager, Wayne Thomas says:
"Carbon Monoxide is the invisible poison within our homes that often goes unnoticed. It’s affects are often mistaken for other issues or illnesses. The only way of preventing the possible fatal effects of Carbon Monoxide is to regularly service and maintain any equipment that produces it.
I cannot stress enough the importance of having a correctly positioned working Carbon Monoxide Detector in your home to alert you of its presence. Further assistance and advice can be obtained by arranging a Home Safety Check with your local Fire Service.”
This carbon Monoxide Awareness week we will be sharing the tragic story of Rhys Sheridan on our social media channels - #RememberingRhys. Rhys’ family have asked us to share their harrowing story to highlight the importance of having a working Carbon Monoxide monitor.
Keep an eye on our social channels this week, for the videos telling their story.
You can also find out more about the dangers of Carbon Monoxide here: Carbon Monoxide Safety - Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (mawwfire.gov.uk)
To book a free Safe and Well visit with us call us on 0800 169 1234 or visit Safe and Well Visit - Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (mawwfire.gov.uk)
#RememberingRhys