The fact that Carbon Monoxide (CO) is often dubbed the “silent killer” is no gimmick: it’s tasteless, odourless, colourless, and is non-irritant. CO is a toxic gas that comes from appliances that burn wood, oil, natural gas, coal, and other fuels, so it’s important you know how to detect Carbon Monoxide in your home.
Small doses alone can poison humans with fatal consequences; NHS states that more than 200 people in the UK are hospitalised from suspected Carbon Monoxide poisoning each year. So you can see why it’s so important that you detect it before it can cause harm. Here’s how you can detect CO around your house.
Install Carbon Monoxide detectors
Detecting Carbon Monoxide in your home is simple thanks to affordable, accurate detectors like this Kidde Combination Alarm for Kitchens and this Lifesaver Carbon Monoxide Detector. Install these detectors in high-risk areas and monitor them to see if they pick up alarming CO levels.
Any Carbon Monoxide Detector you install should be approved to the latest British (BS Kitemark) or European Standard (EN50291). Remember, it’s not enough to simply install a detector and then neglect it. It requires testing – at least monthly – to ensure it’s in working order just in case CO does indeed find its way into your home.
How to reduce the chance of Carbon Monoxide poisoning
We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t tell you of steps you can take to decrease the likelihood of falling victim to Carbon Monoxide poisoning, so here are some quick pointers that’ll steer you in the right direction:
– Ensure your home is well-ventilated
– Maintain and service your appliances (boilers, cookers, heating systems, etc)
– Only use registered engineers for installation and servicing of appliances
– Don’t leave your car running in the garage
– Check your car’s exhaust for leaks annually
– Don’t use an oven or gas range to heat up your home
– Fit an extractor fan in your kitchen
Thankfully, our product range includes Carbon Monoxide Detectors with 10 years warranty, digital display, additional smoke detection, and other great features.