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Gas Detection

Gas detection equipment more relevant than ever as CO awareness charity set to close

The potential closure of a carbon monoxide awareness charity means investing in gas detection equipment could be more relevant than ever.

British business owners and homeowners alike might be wise to invest in gas detection equipment ahead of the winter season. 

Many will have the heating on to combat the cold weather and some may have forgotten that carbon monoxide (CO) can be a real danger.

With the gas killing approximately 50 people per year in the UK alone, the news that Carbon Monoxide Awareness is set to close down may mean 2013 brings with it more risk than ever before.

The charity has been running for seven years and is responsible for setting up Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week.

It champions the use of gas detection equipment and looks to support those affected by CO poisoning.

Founder Lynn Griffiths explained that while the lack of funding for the charity means it is likely to close on December 31st, the organisation has not been without its triumphs.

"We have had many successes. We established Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week which is now a national institution and a fixture in the calendar and our news media campaigns have generated massive publicity," she said.

"We have also worked closely with councils, the emergency services and many others on a range of campaigns and we have been a source of support to victims of this terrible gas."

Ms Griffiths added that both NHS Direct and the College of Emergency Medicine pass on her details to the victims of CO poisoning.

Despite the fact the charity appears to be doomed, she is keen to encourage Brits to take a stand against carbon monoxide.

"[People] may have family or friends who are at risk and there are certainly many young people, older people and immigrants to the UK who live in poverty and don't have CO alarms."

Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include drowsiness, nausea, headaches, vomiting, breathing difficulties, vision changes, rapid pulse, vertigo, dizziness and pins and needles.

CO can be produced from any gas, oil, coal or wood-burning appliance and such equipment needs servicing every year.

As the gas is colourless and odourless, it can be difficult to detect without the correct equipment - as evidenced at a US school Finch Elementary School, which recently saw 42 pupils hospitalised after a CO leak.

Written by Chris Malone

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