Carbon monoxide poisoning warning

West Australians are being urged to have their domestic gas appliances checked and serviced as part of a new campaign to prevent deadly carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Launching the ‘For Safety’s Sake’ campaign, Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said although millions of Australians used gas appliances safely in their homes every day, most were unaware of the danger posed by faulty, poorly maintained or misused gas devices which could emit dangerous levels of CO.

Mr Mischin said it was a colourless and odourless gas, which made it difficult to detect.

“Even a small amount of carbon monoxide can cause illness and injury, while high levels of exposure can lead to unconsciousness, coma and death,” he said.

“With the majority of West Australians having at least one domestic gas appliance in their homes, it is vital residents make sure they are checked and serviced regularly by a licensed gas fitter, particularly if they are older appliances or have not been used for some time.”

The Minister said symptoms of low-level CO poisoning could appear similar to the flu or virus.

“Often, families will not know they are being exposed to potentially fatal levels of carbon monoxide until the symptoms of poisoning become severe,” he said.

“A person exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide may experience a headache, weakness and fatigue but at higher levels symptoms could include dizziness, vomiting, seizures and collapse. In extreme cases this can lead to coma and death.

“Anyone using a gas appliance is at risk but seniors, children and those with heart problems are particularly vulnerable. There are several very easy steps families can take to protect themselves from potentially fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Getting all appliances checked and serviced regularly by a licensed gasfitter is vital. However, people should also take care to keep gas devices clean and free of dust, make sure the area in which they are used is well ventilated, never use outdoor appliances inside and only use the appliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.”

Last week the State Government launched its winter Home Fire Safety Awareness Campaign, urging the community to take action to minimise the risk of fire in their homes from preventable accidents like leaving cooking unattended or candles burning.