Every year, about fifty people die in Britain of carbon monoxide poisoining caused by faulty home heating appliances. After asbestos, carbon monoxide is the most common single cause of poisoning at work and in the home.
Carbon monoxide is a gas that is formed when in complete combustion occurs whether in an automobile engine or in heating appliances that burn cola or other fossil fuels, especially gas. It is colourless, odourless and tastesless, so how does it kill?
Red blood cells carry vital oxygen to the body tissues. The toxicity of carbon monoxide poisoning occurs as the body becomes starved of oxygen. Exposure to low emission of carbon monoxide over a period of time can result in permanent brain damage. Symptoms include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, nausea and fainting and in severe cases, weak pulse, comma and respiratory failure. If a person is suddenly overcome, prompt administration of oxygen and respiratory assistance are very essential before asphyxiation – in sufficient oxygen reaching the brain causes death.
What can be done to avert the danges of carbon monoxide? Have all appliances fitted and checked regularly by an expert. If a gas flame burns yellow rather than blue, consider it a warning of irregular burning possible emission of domestic carbon monoxide alarms of different types are now available. Never become complacent when using appliances that emit carbon monoxide.
