Mears Group has teamed up with charity Carbon Monoxide Awareness to raise awareness about the dangers of the so called silent killer during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 19 - 23 November.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that causes the accidental deaths of around 50 people each year. A further 200 people in England and Wales are seriously injured by CO. Poisoning by CO is almost certainly under-diagnosed and there could well be a large number of people being exposed and suffering the ill effects of exposure. Older people, children, pregnant women and their babies and those with breathing problems or cardiovascular disease are at increased risk. Poisoning can result in lasting neurological damage*.
Lynn Griffiths, President of the Charity said "At a time when people are being carried off to hospital every week because of carbon monoxide, being aware of the dangers posed by this killer gas have become even more important".
Mears Executive Director Alan Long said; 'Carbon Monoxide is the most common poison within the UK. By ensuring that all fuel burning appliances and associated flues are maintained and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, chimneys are swept and inspected regularly and that an audible CO alarm is fitted we can help protect ourselves and our families from the dangers of carbon monoxide.'
Mears and charity Carbon Monoxide Awareness will be running a series of information road shows across the country. Seminars and awareness events are being held in Newtonabbey, Paisley, Neath Port Talbot and Widnes, and information drops are being carried out by Mears employees at other branches in England.
These events will offer advice on the causes of CO poisoning, how it can be prevented and what the symptoms are.
To find out more information about the dangers of CO poisoning please visit Carbon Monoxide Awareness's website http://www.covictim.org/