Warnings issued about silent killer carbon monoxide

OFTEC, the organisation that represents the liquid fuel heating industry in Ireland, is urging homeowners across Ireland to be proactive in ensuring their homes are equipped in case of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

On average, between one and two people die each year in Ireland from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning in the home in incidents related to domestic heating or other fossil fuel installations.

The company said: "With recent tragedies in Ireland, it is vital that homeowners are aware of the risks and severe consequences that can happen."

Carbon Monoxide  can be produced within any type of heating system as a result of any fossil fuel, such as wood, peat, oil or gas, not burning correctly. Described as the silent killer, CO is a colourless, odourless gas and poisoning can result in severe long-term health complications, or even death. Critical symptoms to watch out for include tiredness, dizziness and headaches, with younger and older people most at risk.

OFTEC, has issued a simple ABC safety checklist to guide Irish households on the key steps to reduce risk:

• Alarm – purchase a CO alarm (approximately €20) for every room which has a fuel burning appliance such as a boiler, wood burner or open fire. Where a new or replacement combustion appliance (solid fuel, gas, oil), is installed in a dwelling, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm should be provided:(a) in the room where the appliance is located, and (b) either inside each bedroom or, within 5 m (16 ft.) of the bedroom door, measured along the path of the corridor.
• Batteries – regularly ensure all the alarms are functional by holding the ‘test’ button.
• Check – households with incorrectly installed or poorly maintained appliances are at a greater risk of exposure to CO. It is crucial to have your oil boiler serviced at least once a year by an OFTEC registered technician to check it is in working order.

In the event of a CO alarm going off, OFTEC’s advice is to open the windows, leave the building immediately and call the emergency services.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager, said: “An annual service of your oil boiler by an OFTEC registered technician is your first line of defence. The technician will check the appliance to make sure it is operating efficiently and safely. It's extremely important that householders realise that there is potential risk from all fossil fuel appliances and take sensible safety measures. OFTEC hopes to reduce the potential risk to homeowners across Ireland through our checklist and save lives.”