Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced by incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels, including gas, oil, wood and coal.
Carbon-based fuels are safe to use - it's only when the fuel does not burn properly that excess CO is produced, which is poisonous.
Appliances leaking carbon monoxide
Early symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to many common illnesses and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simple tiredness. Unlike flu, carbon monoxide poisoning does not cause a high temperature (fever).
If you believe you or your family may have been exposed to carbon monoxide:
- Open windows in your home to ventilate and bring fresh air in and evacuate the building.
- Turn off the gas supply using the red handle at your gas meter or where unable to do so turn off the power to any gas appliances.
- Telephone our repairs hotline to log that you believe there has been a Carbon monoxide incident. We'll take your details and advise you who to contact next and the procedure.
- You should then get urgent medical advice by contacting your doctor or visiting an Accident and Emergency department.
For more information, visit the NHS website or call NHS Direct on telephone: 111.
You should not re-enter the building until advised it is safe to do so by a qualified gas engineer.
In a medical emergency don't delay, telephone: 999.
Protect against carbon monoxide
Never try to service your own fuel burning appliance. You should always use a Gas Safe registered engineer to install and service your gas cooker and appliances. It is important to have your gas safety check every year.
Install CO detectors, making sure they are not covered by curtains or furniture which is also a free service provided for City of York Council tenants.
Please note: carbon monoxide can also be generated by solid fuel appliances these should also be subject to an annual safety check by a HETAS registered engineer, permission to install these in City of York Council properties must always be obtained prior to installation.