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Many are killed each year, and many more suffer ill health from Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is
an invisible, odourless, tasteless and extremely toxic gas. It is produced by appliances and vehicles burn-
ing fuels, such as coal, oil, natural/bottled gas, paraffin, wood, petrol, diesel, charcoal etc. CO is absorbed
by red blood cells in the lungs in preference to oxygen - this results in rapid damage to the heart and
brain from oxygen starvation.
High levels of CO in a house can be caused by:
• Incorrectly or poorly installed fuel-burning appliances.
• Blocked or cracked chimneys/flues.
• Blocked vents or draught-proofing which makes areas with fuel burning appliances or fireplaces airtight.
• Engines of cars, lawnmowers etc. left running in confined spaces.
• Portable paraffin or gas heaters in badly ventilated rooms.
2.2 Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Most people know that high levels of CO are harmful, however the period of exposure is also important.
The following symptoms are related to Carbon Monoxide poisoning and should be discussed with all
members of the household.
Mild Exposure
: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as “flu-like” symptoms).
Medium Exposure
: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure
: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, death.
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