Carbon monoxide poisoning

What to do if you suspect acarbon monoxide leak

If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or you suspect a leak:

stop using all appliances, switch them off,and open doors and windows to ventilate the property
evacuate the property immediately stay calm and avoid raising your heart rate
call the gas emergency number on 0800 111 999 to report the incident , orthe Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Gas Safety Advice Line on 0800 300 363
don't go back into the property wait for advice from the emergency services
seek immediate medical help you may not realise you've been affected by the carbon monoxide, and going outside into fresh air won't treat any exposure by itself

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for carbon monoxide poisoning

Introduction

Read about carbon monoxide poisoning, including symptoms, causes, signs to look out for, what to do if you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, plus prevention advice.

Symptoms ofcarbon monoxide poisoning

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoningaren't always obvious, particularly during low-level exposure. A tension-type headache is the most common symptom ofmild carbon monoxide poisoning.Other symp

What causescarbon monoxide to leak?

Carbon monoxideis produced whenfuels such asgas, oil, coal and wooddon't burn fully. Burning charcoal, running cars and the smoke fromcigarettes also produce carbon monoxide gas. Gas, oil, coal and

Treatingcarbon monoxide poisoning

Seek medical advice fromyour GP if you think you've been exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide. Goimmediately to your local accident and emergency (A&E) department if you think you've been exp

Complications of carbon monoxide poisoning

Prolonged significant exposure to carbon monoxide can cause serious complications, including brain damage and heart problems. In very severe cases, it can result in death. Effects of severe carbon mo

Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning

It's important to be aware of the dangers and identify anyappliances in your housethat could potentiallyleak carbon monoxide. Maintaining and servicing appliances Boilers, cookers, heating systems a

What to do if you suspect acarbon monoxide leak

If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or you suspect a leak: stop using all appliances, switch them off,and open doors and windows to ventilate the property evacuate the property immediately st

Being aware of the signs

It's very important to be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and to look out for warning signs. You should suspect carbon monoxide poisoning if: other people in your house, flat or work

Health News