Protection from carbon monoxide poisoning
(02/11/2007)

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, tasteless, odourless gas produced whenever a fossil fuel is not burned efficiently. It can be emitted from inadequately maintained or badly fitted domestic heating appliances such as wall heaters, fires or boilers and can be fatal in high concentrations.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a common issue. The best way to protect yourself is to install an approved Carbon Monoxide detector or combined smoke and carbon monoxide alarm which must be tested regularly.

There are many different types of monoxide detectors from indicator patches to digital display and alarms. Patch indicators, such as FireAngel Carbon Monoxide Tester Patches (£5.98 for a pack of two) are a simple and cost effective way to monitor the presence of carbon monoxide in your home, changing colour when the gas is detected. With patch indicators, the onus lies on the homeowner to regularly check the patch so for peace of mind, a detector with an alarm that sounds once carbon monoxide reaches a certain level may be better – The FireAngel Poisonous Monoxide Alarm (£22.98) or, for double protection, the joint smoke and carbon monoxide alarm (£34.98) is a great investment.

Research shows that whilst asleep, people often do not wake up when an alarm sounds downstairs. Through advances in technology the FireAngel Wi-Safe Carbon Monoxide Alarm has been introduced exclusively to B&Q. The two-part alarm is plugged in downstairs near the source of any potential leak (boiler or gas fire) and the portable handset then taken upstairs to bed. If carbon monoxide or smoke is detected, the alarm will sound both upstairs and down making it particularly useful to the hard of hearing or elderly. The alarm and handset are sold separately priced at £34.98 for the alarm and £27.98 for the handset.

For anyone who wants to constantly monitor the amount of carbon monoxide in the air, B&Q offers a range of digital display alarms. As well as sounding when carbon monoxide reaches a certain level, the digital display screens shows the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and could help prevent carbon monoxide reaching a dangerous levels by detecting increases at the earliest opportunity. Prices start from £27.98.

All carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms should be tested frequently regularly and the batteries replaced regularly.

Properly installed and well maintained heating devices present little or no threat to the family. Adequate ventilation will also help prevent any build up of carbon monoxide, so ensure that chimneys and flues are kept blockage free and never cover or fill air vents.

Coal burning and natural gas appliances should have their flues and chimneys swept regularly to ensure that any blockages are identified and cleared swiftly. You should also have all fuel burning appliances, such as boilers and fires serviced by a qualified engineer every 12 months.

The main source of carbon monoxide in the home is from old gas boilers or fires. If you are looking to replace your existing boiler, B&Q offers a range of energy efficient A and B rated boilers, such as the Ravenheat HE85t Combi Condensing Boiler (£599) or the Vizo Plus 24 HE combi condensing boiler (£499) . Always use a Corgi Registered fitter.

If you want to replace an old fire, and keep warm without warming up the planet, B&Q has a great range of flu-less fireplaces which reduce heat loss by recirculating heat in the room rather than pumping it out of a chimney. Prices range from £249 - £ 1,199. If you are thinking of getting rid of your fire altogether, turn your empty fireplace into a focal point with a decorative fire surround, candles or dried flowers. To keep out debris and draughts, close off the flue with a piece of hardboard nailed to wooden battens screwed into the side of the chimney opening. Remember to cut some holes to ensure adequate ventilation is maintained.

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Protection from carbon monoxide poisoning (02/11/2007)

Protection from carbon monoxide poisoning
(02/11/2007)