Northern Gas Networks is proud to support Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 2021.
You might know carbon monoxide only as the ‘silent killer’; but this gas is also associated with a range of health complications, including low birth weight in babies, brain damage and heart disease. Many of us could be being harmed without even knowing; as carbon monoxide cannot be detected by human senses. We will be joining the All Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group (APPCOG)’s annual campaign from 22 – 28 November 2021 to raise awareness and help consumers and the public to wise up to carbon monoxide.
Steve Dacre, Vulnerability Innovation Lead at NGN said: “This is extremely important to us because we know it’s going to be a challenging winter for many people this year, because of the rising cost of living and increasing energy bills. But we want to make sure people don’t sacrifice safety because of this, as there are several simple steps everyone can take to protect themselves against carbon monoxide.
“Firstly, get your gas appliances serviced every year by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. Secondly, buy an audible carbon monoxide alarm as it could save your life. Finally, if you smell gas or suspect CO poisoning call the National Gas Emergency Service number on 0800 111 999 immediately. An engineer will visit you within the hour to check your property.”
Key Messages for Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week #COAW21:
- Carbon monoxide is not only a killer: Sub-lethal poisoning is associated with chronic health conditions
- Symptoms of exposure + understanding COMA: Raising awareness to aid identification of potential exposures
- Staying safe: Behaviours that increase & reduce CO risks, Gas Emergency Service number 0800 111 999
There is concern amongst MPs and engineers that the increasing costs of living will have a negative impact on many households who are struggling, as they may be unable to afford the usual upkeep and maintenance on their homes this winter. Servicing your boiler isn’t going to make it to the top of your to do list if you’re finding it difficult to put food on the table or worrying how you’re going to afford essential medication. However, this could put you at greater risk of exposure to carbon monoxide.
The All Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group (APPCOG) is leading the campaign, using the hashtag #COAW21. Barry Sheerman MP, Co-Chair of the parliamentary group says:
“I am urging everyone to understand the dangers posed by carbon monoxide. Each year in November, Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week is held to raise awareness of what you can do to stay safe and protect your family. Number one is getting your appliances serviced and investing in a carbon monoxide alarm. But if that’s not affordable for you, there are still simple things you can do to stay safe. Learn the signs that carbon monoxide could be around and save the Gas Emergency Service number 0800 111 999 on to your phone today – it could save a life!”
This year, it is more important than ever to support our communities and keep an eye for the early warning signs that something might not be safe. The All Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group (APPCOG) has partnered with United Against CO to produce a range of awareness raising content and online tools that can be downloaded for free. Keep safe this winter – get your online tool kit today and start spreading the word about carbon monoxide!
