Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 2014

carbon monoxide awareness week 2014 is Monday September 22 to Sunday September 28.

The awareness campaign for this year focuses on REMEMBER REMEMBER REMEMBER.

REMEMBER the causes

Carbon Monoxide can be produced when ANY fuel is burnt, including oil, gas,wood and coal

REMEMBER to service

To prevent Carbon Monoxide, ensure your appliances are installed and serviced annually by a Registered Gas Installer, a Registered Oil Technician, or a qualified service agent for your fuel type.  Also make sure vents, flues and chimneys are kept clear.

REMEMBER the alarm

Carbon Monoxide is odourless and colourless so for added protection install an audible carbon monoxide alarm.  Make sure the alarm complies with EN 50291, carries a CE mark, has an end of life indicator and carries an independent certification mark.

carbon monoxide awareness week 2014, what is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon Monoxide (also known as CO) is a colourless, odourless poisonous gas and is a common yet preventable cause of death from poisoning worldwide.

It can be produced when there is a lack of air when fossil fuels are used or if the appliance is faulty.

Dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide can accumulate at home as a result of any or a combination of the following:

• Faulty or damaged heating appliances
• Appliances not maintained or serviced
• Rooms not properly ventilated
• Blocked chimneys or flues
• Poor installation of heating appliances
• Property alterations or home improvements that reduce ventilation
• Running engines such as vehicles or lawnmowers in garages
• Improper operation of appliances such as using cooking appliances for heating purposes or the use of barbecues indoors or under cover
• The operation of petrol driven mobile generators indoors
• The bulk storage of wood chips, such as those used for wood chip heating systems