air comes from and ensure vents/air bricks etc. remain unobstructed (particularly
after building work).
(4) The appliances must also “breathe out” the waste gases (including the CO) –
usually through a flue or chimney.Ensure chimneys and flues are not blocked or
leaking, and get them checked every year.Check for excessive rust or cracks on
appliances and pipe work.
(5) Never leave your car, motor bike or lawnmower engine running in the garage
with the garage door closed. Never leave the door from the house to the garage
open if the car engine is running.
(6) Never adjust your own gas pilot lights.
(7) Never use a gas cooker or a barbecue for home heating.
(8) Children should be warned of the dangers of CO poisoning and instructed never to
touch, or interfere with the CO Alarm. Do not allow small children to press the
test/hush button as they could be subjected to excessive noise when the unit alarms.
(9) Leaving windows or doors slightly open (even a few inches) will significantly
reduce the risk of high levels of CO occurring. The high levels of draught-
proofing in modern houses reduces ventilation and can allow dangerous gases
to build up.
(10) Install CO Alarms in all the areas recommended in this leaflet.
(11) Recognise that CO poisoning may be the cause when family members suffer
from “flu-like” symptoms when at home but feel better when they are away for
extended periods.
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