Toggle menu
  1. You are here:
  2. South Holland District Council
  3. /
  4. Resident
  5. /
  6. Housing
  7. /
  8. South Holland Tenants
  9. /
  10. Repairs and maintenance
  11. /
  12. Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon Monoxide Safety

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas produced by the incomplete burning of any carbon fuel such as natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

All SHDC properties that have a gas boiler have a carbon monoxide detector installed.

What are the signs of Carbon Monoxide?

It is important to know the signs of CO in your home, they include:

  • Floppy yellow or orange flame on your gas hob or oven (like a candle flame), rather than a crisp blue flame
  • Dark, sooty or yellow staining on or around gas appliances
  • Pilot lights that frequently blow out or have a yellow floppy candle like flame
  • Seeing or smelling smoke from a gas appliance
  • Having excessive condensation in a room, where frequently used gas appliances are situated

What should I do if I suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

The six main symptoms of CO poisoning are:

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

It's important to know the signs of a carbon monoxide leak in your home, because knowing the signs can ensure you aren't exposed to dangerous levels of CO for an extended period of time.

If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak:
1.  Don't delay - get fresh air immediately
2.  Open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances and leave the house
3.  See your doctor immediately or go to hospital. They can do a blood or breath test to check and can advise if you need treatment for CO poisoning
4.  If you think there is an immediate danger, call the Gas Emergency Helpline on 0800 111 999
5.  Report the issue to us as an emergency repair by phoning 01775 761161