CO leaks are relatively common, but there is a real need for information. The Be Alarmed! campaign aims to raise awareness of the issues and help people protect themselves against harm.
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Know the Signs
Carbon monoxide leaks can arise from poorly-fitted and ill-maintained appliances such as ovens and heating. So you could be making a sandwich one day when all of a sudden you feel a headache coming on, or even worse.Watch out for the symptoms, including:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Breathlessness
- Collapse
- Loss of consciousness
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Install the Right Alarm
Sparks Electrical stocks CO and gas detectors from just £16.83 (plus VAT). The lithium battery in the Ei208 model will power the unit for up to 7 years, which is about the useful lifespan of the sensor.For additional functions such as a digital display and a memory function that records the level of carbon monoxide when the alarm was last triggered, consider the Aico Ei3018 model. There are also more in the online store.
A lot of people don't have them installed - in a recent survey, only 39% of the respondents had a CO detector in their home. There seems to be some confusion between CO and smoke alarms - many people think they're the same thing. They aren't.
A carbon monoxide detector needs to be audible and installed at head-height (that is, your breathing level) - not on the ceiling like a smoke alarm. The batteries and sensor should be tested at regular intervals.
The Be Alarmed! website has a thorough guide to protecting yourself against carbon monoxide poisoning, which is well worth a read. Stay safe!