What to Do If Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds: A Guide for UK Residents
Carbon monoxide (CO) is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it is an odourless, colourless gas that can cause illness or even death. In the UK alone, an estimated 50 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning, with many more falling ill due to exposure.
It is therefore essential that you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home and know what to do if it goes off. Here are the steps you should take if your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or if you suspect a leak…
1. Evacuate the Property
The first thing you must do if your carbon monoxide alarm sounds is to immediately evacuate your property. This is not something that can be taken lightly, as carbon monoxide poisoning can cause unconsciousness and death within minutes. It is recommended that you leave all windows and doors open as you exit to allow any remaining gas to disperse.
2. Call the Emergency Services and Gas Safe Register
Once you are outside, call the emergency services straight away on 999.
Let them know that you suspect a carbon monoxide leak and that your alarm has sounded.
In addition to the emergency services, you should also contact the Gas Safe Register on 0800 408 5500.
They will be able to advise you on the next steps to take and send a qualified gas engineer to your property to investigate.
3. Do not Re-enter the Property
Under no circumstances should you re-enter your property until the emergency services or a qualified gas engineer has given you the all-clear. Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous, and it is not worth risking your life or the lives of others for any reason.
4. Identify the Cause of the Problem
Once the emergency services or a qualified gas engineer has arrived, they will need to investigate the cause of the carbon monoxide leak.
This is likely to involve shutting off your gas supply and investigating any gas appliances in your property.
It is important to remember that only qualified gas engineers are legally allowed to work on gas appliances in the UK.
5. Preventative Measures
After the problem has been identified and resolved, it is important to take preventative measures to ensure that carbon monoxide does not leak again.
This may involve regular maintenance of your gas appliances by a qualified gas engineer, as well as the installation of additional carbon monoxide detectors in your property.
Conclusion:
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious and potentially deadly issue that can affect anyone with gas appliances in their home.
By knowing what to do if your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or if you suspect a leak, you can take steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Remember to always evacuate the property immediately, call the emergency services and Gas Safe Register, and avoid re-entering the property until it has been given the all-clear.
With regular maintenance by qualified professionals and the installation of carbon monoxide detectors, you can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from occurring in your home.
Stay safe and take the necessary precautions for a healthy and happy life in your home.