Carbon Monoxide Warning

Firefighters were called to a suspected gas leak at a house in Basildon this morning.

When fire crews arrived they found a gas hob had been left on. Crews took readings that found a high level of carbon monoxide inside the property. Firefighters immediately ventilated the property and called for an Ambulance for an elderly man living in the house as a precaution.

Group Manager Dan Partridge said: 

"Carbon monoxide is known as a silent killer. You can't see it, smell it or taste it. This is why it's so important you have working carbon monoxide alarms in your home if you have a gas boiler, gas appliances or an open fire or log burner.

"Thankfully we were notified by the occupant's carers this morning. It's not known how long the gas had been left on, but it's possible it could have been on all night, it was good that the carers took action when they did."

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is produced when fossil fuels burn inefficiently. The most common sources are faulty boilers, gas fires and cookers.

Known as the silent killer, due to its lack of colour, taste and smell, carbon monoxide is invisible to the human senses, which is why CO alarms are so important.

Each year in the UK alone, over 200 people are hospitalised with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, which leads to around 60 deaths.

Carbon Monoxide alarms

All properties with fuel-burning appliances should have a CO alarm. Whether it’s a gas boiler, a coal fire or a flue running through the room, a CO alarm should be present in each area where a potential CO source may occur.

Carbon monoxide can be bought from a number of retailers including your local supermarket and DIY store.