Householders are being urged to be aware of the dangers associated with carbon monoxide as part Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week which begins today, 22 September.

The main aim of the week is to raise public awareness of the causes and symptoms, as well as the protection measures for this highly poisonous gas which can kill in minutes.

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Carbon Monoxide is one of the leading causes of poisoning deaths throughout the world.

It can build up to dangerous concentrations indoors when stoves, fires and boilers are not properly vented, operated or maintained. Because it has no odour, colour or taste, CO cannot be detected by our senses. Symptoms include a mild headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and drowsiness.

Simple measures can be taken to prevent CO problems, such as the installation of a CO alarm to detect potentially deadly conditions. Householders should also make sure that all fuel burning appliances and heating devices are properly vented and maintained.

(CD/JP)