Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odourless, tasteless, invisible, flammable and very toxic gas, which can be emitted from the burning of any carbon-based fuel.
NEW – Summer Gas Safety and the BBQ Safety Checklist
Gas Safety and CO Awareness isn’t just a consideration for the winter, when the heating is on and all the doors and windows are shut.
Gas Safe Register has some advice for the summer months as well
LPG Gas safety
Whether you’re camping at a festival, taking to Britain’s waterways or enjoying a caravan break, remember to follow these simple safety measures when using LPG. Discover more with our LPG guidance for fixed and portable gas appliances.
Gas safety on holiday
You’re heading off for a well-deserved holiday. The planning. The packing. The travel. The last thing on your mind is gas safety, but it’s vital that you keep yourself safe. Whether it’s a long summer holiday or a winter weekend getaway are you stashing a carbon monoxide alarm in your suitcase? You should be, because your accommodation could have a badly fitted or poorly maintained gas appliance. Discover the gas safety tips you need to know when you’re on holiday.
Gas safety for motorhomes and caravans
Going on a touring holiday this year? While there are plenty of things to consider before you hit the road, make sure your mobile holiday home meets gas safety requirements. Find out what you need to know before you go.
BBQ Safety
Did you know that a BBQ can give off Carbon Monoxide (CO) in an enclosed space even after it’s gone out, so always BBQ in a well-ventilated area.
To be CO safe this summer, remember:
- Never bring a BBQ inside your home, tent, awning or any enclosed area
- Remember that BBQs and outdoor cooking equipment can give off CO even after they have gone out and are cold to the touch
- Always use your BBQ in an open area with plenty of ventilation. Keep it away from tents and sleeping areas
If you are using LPG/ Bottle Gas BBQ:
Always be sure to only use and change your canisters in a well-ventilated, open space. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully and turn off the supply properly before doing so
Remember to check your equipment before using. Ensure it’s in good working order and that hoses are securely attached and not damaged
Equipment that can produce Carbon Monoxide can include the following:
- Mains gas heating and cooking appliances
- Bottled gas heating and cooking appliances
- Solid fuel heating and cooking appliances
- Oil heating appliances LPG
- Wood burners and open fires (including the contents of the ash bucket)
- Damaged or broken vehicle exhaust systems
- Barbecues
- Petrol / Diesel vehicles and boats
- Generators
- Gas appliances in caravans/boats/allotments
- Bottled gas lighting, camping cookers
- Paraffin burning appliances
- Cigarettes
Symtoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning include:
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
As the effects are similar to flu like symptoms CO poisoning can be misdiagnosed. Different members of the family can suffer different symptoms.
The difference is that there is no fever and when in fresh air the symptoms disappear.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Install an approved (EN 50291) carbon monoxide alarm in the home gives an added
safeguard
Do not use the ‘Black Spot’ detector as they give no audible alarm, i.e. it will not warn you
when sleeping or when slipping into a CO induced coma
Don’t let this be your alarm!