The dangers of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas formed through incomplete combustion of fuels, resulting in one molecule of carbon and oxygen.

Carbon monoxide can be found in any environment whenever a material burns. Various fuel-burning appliances and engines create Carbon monoxide. The amount of carbon monoxide produced by these sources usually isn’t a cause for concern. If they’re used in an enclosed or partially enclosed/confined space, for example, a faulty boiler in a small out-shed with poor ventilation, the carbon monoxide can build to dangerous levels. In a home environment, examples of Carbon monoxide producing products/areas can include:

• Furnaces or boilers
• Fireplaces, both gas and wood-burning
• Gas stoves and ovens
• Motor vehicles
• Grills, generators, power tools, lawn equipment
• Wood stoves
• Tobacco smoke
• Water heaters

Examples for outdoor Carbon monoxide producing products/areas can include:

• Camp stoves
• Charcoal grills
• Fuel-burning lanterns
• Portable generators near open doors and windows

Approximately 60 people die per year in England and Wales due to Carbon monoxide poisoning.