As winter gets closer and people turn up the central heating, we want to ensure your readers are aware of the risks of Carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas which kills 30 people a year in the UK. It can also cause permanent injury. To protect against its effects, it is essential to get all fuel-burning appliances checked by a qualified professional at least once a year, and to fit an audible Carbon monoxide alarm.
Older people are particularly at risk from the effects of Carbon monoxide, yet research shows that fewer than half have an alarm fitted in their homes and more than a third do not get appliances serviced regularly.
We are calling on those readers who are planning to visit older relatives or neighbours to check that they are taking the right precautions to stay warm and well this winter.
For older people on lower incomes, some free help may be available.
For information, contact your energy supplier or visit the Carbon monoxide – Be Alarmed! campaign website at
www.co-bealarmed.co.uk/how-to-stay-safe/advice-for-elderly-peopleNigel Dumbrell
Chairman,
Carbon Monoxide Consumer Awareness Alliance
The full article contains 205 words and appears in Peterborough ET newspaper.
