Holidaymakers advised to think about the use of gas detection equipment
The increase of carbon monoxide-related deaths highlights the need for more protection – even when on holiday.
Where gas detection equipment may be primarily associated with homes and workspaces, there is a suggestion that the equipment be used in activities such as camping or caravanning.
With the summer months ahead, the amount of deaths and illnesses related to the odourless ‘silent killer’ often increase. This can be due to incidents which involve gas or charcoal barbecues in an enclosed space like a tent, caravan or motor home.
Warning messages have been issued by both Nick Dakin (Scunthorpe MP) and Jo Swinson (East Dunbartonshire) regarding summertime carbon monoxide poisoning.
Mr Dakin said: “Never make the mistake of thinking that CO poisoning is a winter-only issue. It isn't. If you're camping or picnicking this summer, the message is simple - follow the safety measures and protect your family."
Advice has been given to holidaymakers to avoid CO poisoning. Never place a lit barbecue near the sleeping area outside a tent or run a gas, petrol, or diesel-powered generator inside a caravan, boat, tent, awning or motorhome.
It is also advised that campers avoid cooking with a stove inside a tent or awning unless there is adequate ventilation. Fuel-burning appliances should never be used to heat a tent or awning and gas and kerosene heaters should only be used outside (unless permanently fitted in a caravan or motor home).
The call for action from both MPs is part of a new national campaign organised by the All-Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group, which works towards preventing CO deaths in the UK.
Amongst the advice given to avoid CO poisoning, it has been suggested that a portable carbon monoxide alarm may be used as an additional precaution.
Frontline Safety offer a range of portable carbon monoxide alarms on our website, including the ALTAIR CO monitor from MSA. This instrument has an operating time of over 2 years (at an average of 2 minutes of alarm per day). Features of the ALTAIR CO include a robust design and an extra-thick rubberised housing which allows it to withstand a 3m drop test.
This gas detection monitor also has a superior triple alarm system fitted to effectively alert the user of any danger through the distinctive audible alarm of 95 dB at 30cm, super-bright LEDs and also a strong vibration alarm.
More information on this product and other portable CO monitors can be found on the Frontline Safety website. If you would like to purchase this instrument, click on the image above or contact us through [email protected].
Precautions must be taken to avoid the dangers that carbon monoxide presents. It is also necessary that people are aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and are able to identify them.
The most common signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, nausea and vomiting, vertigo, weakness and also varying states of consciousness. Heart-related problems may include chest pains, palpitations and also hyperventilation. Symptoms may be slightly different for children but are just as serious.
With camping and caravanning becoming a more recurring activity in the summer months it is evident that action must be taken to avoid the tragedies that have occurred recently.
Last year teenager Hannah Thomas-Jones died from CO poisoning after sleeping in a tent where a barbeque was present, producing harmful CO gas. Last month also saw a mother and daughter die from suspected CO poisoning, which was possibly caused by a faulty generator.
Posted by Shona Innes
