Carbon monoxide cases double since Covid, fire service warns
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue urges households to check appliances and install alarms as concerns rise over safety and data gaps
Cases of carbon monoxide poisoning have doubled since the Covid pandemic, according to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
Area Manager Mike Porter, who also leads on carbon monoxide safety for the National Fire Chiefs Council, said the rise is linked to people spending more time at home and missing essential maintenance checks.
“Since Covid, the numbers have pretty much doubled — probably because more people are working from home” Mr Porter said. “We’re seeing cases where boilers, hobs and chimneys haven’t been serviced as often. I can’t stress enough how important it is to get them checked at least annually.”
He said the cost-of-living crisis may also be contributing, with some households delaying safety checks or servicing to save money.
The fire service is reminding people to ensure they have a working carbon monoxide alarm and to buy only those marked with a British Standard kite mark, to ensure they meet safety standards.
“You might see cheaper alarms online, but make sure they’re from a reputable supplier” Mr Porter added. “It’s around £20 for something that could save your life.”
Mr Porter said national work is underway to improve data collection on carbon monoxide incidents, as the true number of cases may be even higher than reported.
“We’re part of a national group looking at how alarms can record lower levels of exposure so we can get better data and identify risks earlier,” he said.
Carbon monoxide — often called the “silent killer” — is a colourless, odourless gas produced by faulty or poorly maintained fuel-burning appliances such as gas boilers, stoves, and open fires. Symptoms of poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea and confusion.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue say anyone who suspects a leak should turn off appliances, open doors and windows, and seek medical advice immediately.