HOMEOWNERS are being warned to beware of the dangers of carbon monoxide as colder weather approaches.

The warning comes after Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service was called to a property near New Ferry Road, New Ferry on Sunday morning after the activation of a carbon monoxide alarm.

The occupier had turned their gas boiler off and had opened windows before firefighters arrived to clear any potential carbon monoxide fumes.

Watch manager Dave Simpson said: “Flu-like symptoms can be a sign of carbon monoxide. However, our ToxiRAE equipment did not pick up any levels of carbon monoxide in the property when we attended.”

Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the “silent killer” as you cannot see, taste or smell it. 

Watch manager Simpson added: “We advise that people not only have working smoke alarms in their homes but also a carbon monoxide detector and gas appliances are serviced every year.

“If people suspect carbon monoxide is in their home they should open doors and windows to vent the property and clear the air, turn off gas appliances and contact their gas supplier.

“As temperatures drop and people start using their heating and boilers we urge people to make sure they have had their appliances in their home checked by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.”

Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious long-term health problems and even death.

The six main symptoms to look out for are:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Breathlessness
  • Collapse
  • Loss of consciousness

More information can be found on here