Every year there are reports of several deaths in the UK due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Although the numbers vary annually, there is an average of 50 deaths each year, and several hundred more injuries.

Known as the "Silent Killer" to health care professionals, carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous substance that is colourless, tasteless, and odourless. It is also one of the most lethal substances encountered in everyday life.

This tragic number of death and injury could be greatly reduced if everyone in the UK would heed the advice of professionals and install carbon monoxide detectors in every home and dwelling. It is critical to take the time to protect yourself against the dangers and risks associated with carbon monoxide; here are some other ways to help keep your family safe.

CO Checklist
Here are some ways to help safeguard your home and your family against carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Make it a regular habit to check the flame colour of your appliances – The flame should glow blue. If the flame is orange, a problem should be addressed immediately.
• Take a walk through your home and ensure that every room is adequately ventilated. If your appliances do not have enough airflow, carbon monoxide may become trapped.
• Review your records and confirm that all gas appliances have had an annual maintenance check. If they have not been serviced yet this year, call a ‘Gas Safe’ (CORGI) certified engineer and schedule an appointment.
• Check your records to confirm the last time your flue was checked and cleaned. If this has not been done recently, call to schedule an appointment.
• If you have a horizontal gas grill, take the time to ensure that there is adequate ventilation.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector and test it regularly.

The Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide is a dangerous poison because it does not produce a colour, scent, or taste so its presence cannot be detected by any human means. Moreover, the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning closely mimic those of the common flu. This leads to situations in which many people do not realize they have been poisoned until it is too late.

If you suspect that you have been exposed to unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide, or if you are concerned that you are suffering from the early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning you should seek medical care immediately. Even if you are mistaken, it is better to err on the side of caution.

Here are some of the most common symptoms often associated with carbon monoxide poisoning. Ask yourself, do you suffer from any unexplained illnesses such as:

• Fatigue
• Muscle Pain
• Unexplained Exhaustion
• Sour Stomach
• Headaches
• Dizziness

If you believe that you may be suffering from any one or more of these symptoms, contact your doctor and get a CohB test. Try to be tested immediately.

Preventing Disaster
If you are a new tenant or a new homebuyer, make sure you take the time to evaluate the history of your new house or apartment. Ask your property owner if they check the appliances and require them to provide a safety certificate approving the use of such appliances. It is required by law to inform all tenants of the necessary safety check-ups.

Get a Carbon Monoxide Detector
The importance of installing a carbon monoxide detector cannot be overly stressed. Generally, inexpensive and highly effective, carbon monoxide detectors detect any change in pressure or air quality associated with carbon monoxide poisoning. These simple and life-saving devices can be purchased at most hardware stores.

Keeping your home and your family safe is the top priority. Take care of both by following a regular maintenance plan with all of your appliances.