When preparing for a holiday, certain items are non-negotiable: underwear, sun cream, clothes. However, there's one often overlooked item that health officials strongly recommend you always pack, as it could save your life. Public Health officials advises that a carbon monoxide alarm is a crucial addition to your holiday essentials.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is highly poisonous to humans and animals. It can be produced by any fuel-burning appliances that are faulty, improperly used, or incorrectly installed.
While most homes are equipped with CO alarms along with fire alarms, the same can't always be said for holiday accommodations. To ensure your safety, health officials suggest bringing your own CO alarm. This is particularly important when camping, as camping stoves should never be used indoors due to the risk of CO poisoning.
You may not know if the accommodation you are staying at has a working alarm, although they should do, it is still best practice to take your own.
Here are key points to remember about CO alarms:
- Ensure they meet British Standard EN50291.
- Look for the British or European approval mark, such as the Kite mark.
- Test your alarm monthly to ensure it is functioning properly.
CO poisoning can be fatal, and its symptoms—such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, breathlessness, collapse, and loss of consciousness—can easily be mistaken for flu, food poisoning, or a hangover. Fortunately, CO poisoning is preventable with proper precautions.
At home, it's crucial to have a working CO alarm and to have all heating and cooking appliances inspected by a professional annually. When traveling, bring a CO alarm for added safety, whether in the UK or abroad. Remember, barbecues, camping stoves, and outdoor heaters should always be used in well-ventilated, outdoor spaces.
If you experience any symptoms of CO poisoning:
- Stop using the suspected appliance.
- Open windows if it's safe.
- Get outside immediately.
Seek medical help as soon as possible.
In the UK, the Gas Emergency Line is 0800 111 999. Each year, around 30 accidental deaths and over 200 non-fatal CO poisonings requiring hospital admission occur in England and Wales. Packing a CO alarm could be a lifesaving decision on your next holiday.
If you are looking to purchase a new carbon monoxide alarm which meet British standards and is CE approved, click here to view the range currently available.