The Department of Resources claims carbon monoxide kills one Australian annually – yet only half of the population knows that the gas is odourless (research from alarm maker Nest).
This worrying statistic puts raising carbon monoxide awareness into perspective. Too many have been harmed by the dangerous gas, with too little done previously to educate people about what can be done to reduce the risk of poisoning. That's why Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, started by the Chase and Tyler Foundation seven years ago, is a positive step towards safer gas heater use.
What are the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?
One of the primary dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning is that the signs of exposure aren't immediately obvious. Some of the causing common issues stemming from low-level build up include:
- Headaches.
- Nausea.
- Dizziness.
These common issues can easily be confused with a minor sickness or fatigue issues, which means individuals often ignore it or don't think of carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause. Prolonged exposure, however, can cause far more serious health problems such as amnesia and psychosis. In extreme cases the blood becomes so deoxygenated that anyone exposed to the gas will collapse and could be at risk of death. That's why raising awareness around carbon monoxide is critical.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of carbon monoxide's dangers nationwide. Running for a week in mid-autumn, supporters of the Chase and Tyler Foundation hope increasing people's understanding about the signs of poisoning will encourage Australians to take all the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of exposure.
How can I reduce the risk of carbon monoxide build up?
There are a few simple measures you can take to lower the chances of carbon monoxide poisoning affecting you:
- Ensuring the flue of your gas appliance isn't blocked or damaged.
- Replacing damaged or non-compliant heaters with newer, safer models.
- Arranging for a technician to check your appliances every two years.
Gas fitters should be qualified and licenced to work in Victoria, and use industry leading instruments to improve the chances of identifying leaks. Testo's new 300 gas analyser is our most advanced solution for detecting carbon monoxide, designed with technicians in mind to make heating appliance servicing simpler than ever.
For more information about the testo 300 flue gas analyser or how you can improve carbon monoxide detection in your home or business, contact the team today.
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