Contact/Cyswllt: Sian Cliff
02920 898342 / sian.cliff@wales.gov.uk

A campaign to raise awareness of a silent killer gas that can be present in homes has received the support of Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates, following the launch of the Silent Killer campaign jointly sponsored by Age Concern Cymru and Wales & West Utilities.

Commenting on the number of incidents involving CO poisoning annually, Mr. Bates said, “I was shocked to learn that between 2006 and 2007 there had been over a 100 carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning incidents claiming some 50 lives and causing over 200 injuries."

Carbon Monoxide, a gas that is a heavily toxic, colourless, tasteless and scentless is created when fuel does not gain enough oxygen while burning. The Silent Killer campaign highlights the early symptoms of CO poisoning, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue which are often mistaken for 'flu because the deadly gas is undetectable.

Common sources of carbon monoxide in the home include faulty central heating systems, gas appliances and fires along with blocked flues and chimneys which trap gas in the house. In the UK, about 50 people die each year in their homes from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.

Speaking about the campaign Welsh Liberal Democrat Mick Bates said that “awareness of this issue is vital as it is quite literally a matter of life and death.”

 He said, “People can reduce the risk of exposure by ensuring that they have their chimneys and flues checked regularly; that gas appliances and heating systems are inspected every year; that carbon monoxide alarms are fitted; and that all gas products maintenance is carried out by a Corgi registered engineer.

“If you have any of the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, go to a hospital emergency department, particularly if several people in the household are affected, or if pets are affected as well.”

More severe poisoning can result in a fast and irregular heart rate, hyperventilation, confusion, drowsiness and difficulty breathing. Seizures and loss of consciousness may also occur. Sometimes symptoms can occur days or even months after exposure to carbon monoxide in the form of confusion, loss of memory and problems with coordination. Prolonged exposure can lead to brain damage and even death.

Mick commented: “I would like to see carbon monoxide detectors in all council and housing association owned properties. Particularly as these are often inhabited by those most at risk, namely the elderly and families with young children.”

End / Diwedd


Notes:

Details of the Silent Killer Campaign launched jointly by Age Concern Cymru and Wales & West Utilities can be found at: http://www.accymru.org.uk/files/Carbon%20Monoxide%20leaflet.pdf