Promoting Well Being

If you use any type of fossil fuel (coal, gas, wood, oil etc...) to heat your home or cook you should learn more about the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. CO gas is an odourless and tasteless gas and is often referred to as the SILENT KILLER. If your heating/cooking appliances are faulty or there is a lack of ventilation in your home, or you share a wall or chimney with an adjoining house, you could be exposed to this poisonous gas without knowing it.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week begins on 16th November and events will be held across the UK to raise awareness. As the colder weather approaches our use of fossil fuels increases as we heat our homes and prepare hot meals, therefore the risk of poisoning is also increased. Between 2003-2007 there have been 9 deaths in Northern Ireland as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. There have also been additional deaths this year (numbers are yet to be confirmed).

An information leaflet is available from the Promoting Wellbeing Team Tel: 028 3834 4973, which explains the causes of CO accidents, how you can take steps to prevent it, what physical symptoms are associated with CO and who to contact for help. It is important to know the physical symptoms of CO poisoning as it can be easy to mistake symptoms for other illnesses such as flu, viral infections and food poisoning. Information on carbon monoxide is available in alternative languages on request.

Carbon monoxide detectors are small devices which can be used in the home to alert you to the presence of dangerous levels of the gas. These devices can be bought at large DIY stores and retailers, prices start at around £15.00. For further information contact Nina Daly, Accident Prevention Officer, Tel: 028 3834 4973.

To download a copy of the leaflet click here (342kb) Save a copy of this file and then open.