Carbon Monoxide (CO)

It is estimated that up to 50 people die and over 4,000 people are diagnosed with carbon monoxide poisioning in the UK each year, although the figure could be much higher.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is known as the Silent Killer because it is an odourless, tasteless and colourless toxic gas which is produced by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels used in central heating systems, gas appliances and fires. CO can be emitted from any appliance burning combustible fuel, e.g. gas (mains or bottled), solid fuel (coal, wood, etc), petrol, oil or paraffin etc.

Some of the symptoms of mild carbon monoxide poisoning are headaches, dizziness, sore throat, dry cough and nausea, all of which could easily be confused with viral cold and flu infections, food poisoning or general tiredness.

Katie Haines

In Katie's case CO proved fatal but can also poison in tiny amounts because it is taken up in preference to oxygen by the haemoglobin (the oxygen carrying part) in the blood. Low level exposure of CO over a long period can cause brain and neurological damage. Some people, particularly the elderly, are ill for months and even years without knowing why.

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events at the moment.

Last 2 Events

26/3/2013	Home Safety Day
5/2/2013	The Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys Annual Fundraising Quiz
	More past events>>>

Carbon Monoxide - Read what 'Emergency physician' has to say about Carbon monoxide - Dr Ed Walker

Your best bet for avoiding this particularly horrible toxin is to be aware of it. Be alert to the symptoms it can cause. Make sure your heating appliances (and those of your neighbours if they are close, or have an adjoining wall) are working properly, and venting their exhaust fumes safely. Buy a CO alarm – at least one – ideally one on every floor – and fit it according to the instructions. Spend a few pounds extra and get an alarm with a constant digital display of ambient CO levels. Otherwise you need to wait until the alarm has been exposed to its trigger level of CO until it sounds. Considerable exposure can take place before such alarms go off. With a digital display meter you know if there is any CO around at all, and you can take action before any damage is done. Read more >>>

Help the cause by buying the Katie headband

The headband that Katie wore on her wedding day - 12 December 2009 - was made by an old schoolfriend from Sutton High, Aimee Gatliffe. Aimee, who has developed her own gorgeous jewellery line, has renamed this particular headband design 'Katie' and would like to make a 10% donation to the KHMT for every one she sells. It is a lovely design and suitable for brides or bridesmaids. Please tell your friends. Please Visit Katie's page on Aimee's website for more information.