Overview
- UKHSA issued a national alert during CO Awareness Week urging households to learn symptoms, fit alarms, and check fuel‑burning appliances.
- Authorities report that 68% of CO deaths in England happen in autumn and winter as heating use rises and ventilation decreases.
- High concentrations can cause poisoning within minutes, with headaches, dizziness, nausea and breathlessness often mistaken for flu.
- Cadent says its engineers attended 579 CO emergencies in Coventry last year and warns against foil‑covered hobs, oversized pots blocking vents, and indoor charcoal or shisha.
- If CO is suspected, ventilate the home, move to fresh air and call the National Gas Helpline on 0800 111 999 or 999, then arrange annual servicing by a Gas Safe engineer.