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Carbon monoxide poisoning - what to look out for

When using unflued and portable gas appliances people should watch out for signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. While it is odourless and colourless, it is accompanied by other emissions that may produce a ‘car exhaust’ smell or watery eyes.

Breathing low levels of carbon monoxide gas can cause:

• headaches

• nausea,

• dizziness a false sense of well-being

• flushed (red) skin

• tiredness and vomiting.

Prolonged exposure or high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to collapse, unconsciousness, or even death.

If a person thinks they have been exposed to carbon monoxide they should move into fresh air, and seek immediate medical attention. If it can be done safely, turn off the appliance and ventilate the room.

Don’t use your gas cook-top or oven as a heater. They are not designed for unsupervised operation and, if used this way, can emit high levels of carbon monoxide.

Gas barbecues, patio heaters, lamps and camping appliances may produce relatively high levels of carbon monoxide and are not suitable for indoor use.

To avoid having problems with gas appliances it’s also important to maintain them regularly.

For more information on gas and LPG safety see the ESS website – www.ess.govt.nz

Source: http://news.business.govt.nz/news/consumer/article/3265 ; Accessed 11.07.2006