26^th Nov 2017

Carbon monoxide leaks are impossible to detect by renters and homeowners as it is odourless, invisible to the naked eye, is colourless, non-irritable and cannot be smelt or tasted. Because of the fatal gas' makeup it is frightening that more than 50% of the UK's population would not be able to detect a leak in their home.....as it is a very potential killer.

An energy company's latest study states that 58% people renting or buying their home would not be aware of a carbon monoxide if it occurred in their home; it is no wonder that on average four people are treated every day for CO poisoning.

The study was conducted with 1,000 people who said that they were aware of the fact that carbon monoxide leaks are poisonous and is caused by old and faulty boilers. Surprisingly just 20% of respondents said that they had checked their boiler to make sure it was safe.

The study also revealed that fewer than one in four people's homes (39%) did not have a single CO alarm fitted; tenants should be told by their landlord that it is their responsibility to install the correct CO alarms....and not the landlords.

At present, though it is very likely that this will be changed, landlords in England and Wales only have to fit CO alarms in properties with a solid fuel appliance such as a coal or wood burning stove, but in Scotland it is mandatory for all landlords to install the alarms in their properties that are let out.

Dr Sarah Brewer from ExpertHealthReviews.com said: “Exposure to carbon monoxide is the most common cause of lethal poisoning worldwide and can affect anyone in a confined space contaminated with fumes.

“Mild carbon monoxide poisoning causes headache, dizziness, feeling sick or vomiting, shortness of breath, rapid pulse, abdominal pain, irritability and confusion.

“You may feel like you have food poisoning or flu, but without a temperature. These symptoms will gradually get worse if you continue breathing the carbon monoxide, but will improve on breathing fresh air. Other people in the same environment will be affected too."

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