The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has posted an online warning, alerting people to watch out for an “invisible danger” that could cause you to feel unwell. So if you have a headache or feel sick, you may not be coming down with the cold at all, but rather “carbon monoxide poisoning”.
Talking to X, the official agency said that there are four things people across the UK should be doing, whether they live in a flat, house or bungalow. It writes: “Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that you cannot see, smell or taste – but it can kill. Make sure you understand the symptoms, learn who is most at risk, get fuel-burning appliances checked and get a CO alarm.”
As temperatures drop, we close windows and turn on heating. But this can let that invisible threat, carbon monoxide, into our homes. You cannot see, smell, or taste it, but it can be deadly. In England and Wales, about 20 people die each year from accidental CO poisoning, and many more end up in the hospital.
In England, 68% of carbon monoxide deaths happen in autumn and winter. Cold weather leads to more use of heating and less fresh air, which can let CO build up to dangerous levels.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Because carbon monoxide is invisible and has no smell, recognising the symptoms is crucial. Watch out for:
- headache
- dizziness
- feeling or being sick
- feeling weak
- confusion
- chest and muscle pain
- shortness of breath
It warns: “An important warning sign is symptoms coming and going, especially if they get worse when you’re in a particular room or building and improve when you leave or go outside. If you notice this pattern, it could indicate a CO problem.”
Where does carbon monoxide come from?
Common household appliances can produce carbon monoxide if they’re not installed properly, are faulty, or are poorly maintained. These include gas boilers, stoves burning wood, kerosene, natural gas, or propane as well as heaters using wood, oil, or natural gas.
Using portable generators, barbecues, or camping stoves indoors, like in homes, caravans, or tents, can cause dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning. CO can even drift into tents from a nearby barbecue, so always take a CO alarm when camping.
Good ventilation is key. If you run vehicles, generators, or engines in a garage or shed, keep a window or door open. When cooking, use an extractor fan or open a window to stop CO from building up
How to protect your home and family
It suggests that you read up on and remember the following:
Use BS EN 50291-1 compliant alarms in every room with a fuel-burning appliance (gas boiler, coal fire, wood stove). This also applies to temporary homes like caravans and boats.
Test alarms regularly and replace batteries when needed.
Landlords must legally install CO alarms in any living space with a combustion appliance.
Use ventilation wisely – proper airflow helps keep CO levels low.
Extractor fans in kitchens significantly reduce carbon monoxide.
Always ensure good ventilation when cooking, using open fireplaces, wood stoves, or other fuel-burning appliances.
Ventilate enclosed spaces when running a generator or vehicle in a garage or shed.
Service your appliances annually. Have all gas appliances serviced every year by a Gas Safe registered engineer and get your chimney swept annually. Don’t wait until something goes wrong.
Watch for warning signs. ‘Floppy’ yellow or orange flames on gas appliances instead of crisp blue ones, soot marks around appliances, or increased condensation inside windows can all indicate a problem.
What should I do if I suspect CO poisoning?
If you think you might have carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Stop using any appliances you think might be producing CO
- open windows and doors to let fresh air in
- Go outside immediately
- Get medical advice as soon as possible
- Do not go back into the affected building until you’ve received professional advice
If you think a gas appliance is leaking carbon monoxide, call the free National Gas Helpline immediately on 0800 111 999. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The UKHSA concludes: “Every carbon monoxide death is preventable. As we head into the colder months when risk is highest, take time this week to check your CO alarms.”
It adds: “Book appliance services if they’re due, and make sure everyone in your household knows the symptoms to watch for. These simple actions could save your life or the life of someone you love.”
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
