The Danger Of BBQ Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

It has been reported that 80 per cent of Britons are equally as concerned about damaging their garden plants as they are from Carbon Monoxide poisoning when they are having a barbecue. Read our article on the danger of BBQ carbon monoxide poisoning…

The Danger Of BBQ Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Half of the nation’s households plan on having an average of five barbecues this year. The Gas Safe Register has issued a reminder to us all to be aware of the symptoms of CO (carbon monoxide) poisoning. CO gas – often called the ‘silent killer’ – has no colour, smell or taste – and it can be fatal.

Research shows that most people do not realise the danger of potential CO poisoning when having a barbecue. In fact, CO poisoning was only slightly ahead of damaging to plants as in the survey!

Barbecue safety tips:

• Always make sure your barbecue is in view and do not leave it lit when you are sleeping
• Do not take a lit or smouldering barbecue into a tent, caravan or cabin.
• Follow the operating instructions
• Never use a barbeque indoors

Know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Breathlessness
• Collapse
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Loss of consciousness.
• Nausea

If you suspect CO poisoning, move right away from the appliance – getting outdoors if possible – and immediately call 999.

Gas Safety Advice

• Only ever use Gas Safe registered engineers for gas work in your home. You can find a local Gas Safe engineer by phoning Gas Safe Register on 0800 408 5500.
• Every Gas Safe registered engineer carries an ID card. Always ask to see it. On the reverse of their card, there will be a list of which gas appliances the engineer is qualified to work on.
• If you can smell gas, call the 24-hour freephone gas emergency number 0800 111 999 immediately.
• Gas Safe Register is the official list of engineers who can legally work on gas boilers, cookers, fires and other gas appliances.
• By law, all gas engineers must be Gas Safe Registered. Trust the Triangle.