The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an important alert regarding a serious hazard that often goes unnoticed in the home. It encouraged everyone to learn more about the realities of this threat, including the symptoms that may appear upon exposure.

In a post to X yesterday (November 18), the UKHSA said: "Carbon monoxide(CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can kill. This #COAwarenessWeek, make sure you understand the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, get an alarm and check any fuel-burning appliances."

Carbon monoxideis an invisible gas that is typically produced during incomplete combustion when something burns. Several household appliances, such as gas boilers, wood-burning stoves, and certain types of heaters, can emit this gas if they are faulty, improperly installed, or poorly maintained.

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While not visible, it can take less than five minutes for someone to develop carbon monoxide poisoning in high concentrations, leading to severe illness or potentially even death. The risk of carbon monoxide is especially heightened in spaces lacking ventilation, allowing a dangerous buildup of gas to occur.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide can include, but are not limited to, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. Anyone who has experienced difficulty breathing, sudden confusion, or loss of consciousness should call 999.

In ablog published yesterday, the UKHSA also added: "In England, 68% of carbon monoxide deaths occur in autumn and winter. During colder months, we use heating appliances more and keep windows closed to stay warm. This combination - more potentially malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances in use and less ventilation can create the perfect conditions for CO to build up to dangerous levels.

"Smaller rooms containing CO sources, such as fuel-burning cookers and fireplaces, are particularly at risk, as the pollutant concentrates more quickly in confined spaces. However, built-up CO levels can pose a threat throughout homes, as the gas disperses from room to room."

Despite these dangers, the UKHSA stresses that several simple steps can be taken to protect yourself and your loved ones. First and foremost, this includes installing a carbon monoxide alarm in your home and testing it regularly to ensure it is fully functional.

Using extractor fans in kitchens, ventilating your home, and getting appliances serviced annually can also be very helpful, in addition to monitoring the areas surrounding gas appliances. For instance, the UKHSA explained that appliances with 'floppy yellow or orange' flames instead of crisp ones, or even condensation inside nearby windows, can indicate a problem.

The UKHSA added: "Every carbon monoxide death is preventable. As we head into the colder months when risk is highest, take time this week to check your CO alarms, book appliance services if they're due, and make sure everyone in your household knows the symptoms to watch for. These simple actions could save your life or the life of someone you love."

If you think a gas appliance is leaking carbon monoxide, call the free National Gas Helpline immediately on 0800 111 999. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas, which makes it impossible to detect by smell or sight. Household appliances used for heating and cooking can release carbon monoxide if they are installed incorrectly, damaged, or poorly maintained.

According to the NHS, symptoms of poisoning may include:

• Headache


• Dizziness


• Feeling sick or being sick


• Feeling weak


• Confusion


• Chest and muscle pain


• Shortness of breath

If you suspect you have carbon monoxide poisoning, contact 111 or seek help online via 111 in England. However, if you're having difficulty breathing, suddenly feel confused, or someone loses consciousness, call 999.