An incident of carbon monoxide poisoning in a property in Crossmaglen has prompted Armagh City and District Council to remind the public of the hazards associated with this gas. The family were overcome by carbon monoxide fumes traced to a wood burning stove in their living room. The quick action of their son prevented a tragedy. The eighteen year old quickly moved the family outside and encouraged them to breathe in fresh air slowly. His actions no doubt saved the day.

Speaking about carbon monoxide poisoning in general Senior Environmental Health Officer Ciara Daly said, “Around 50 people are killed and hundreds more suffer the ill-effects of carbon monoxide poisoning every year in the UK. It is known as the ‘silent killer’ as you can’t see, smell or taste the gas which is released from the burning of such materials as coal, gas, oil, paraffin and wood”.

Ciara also has some information for householders who either have or are considering installing a wood burning stove. “Carbon Monoxide detectors can be purchased at DIY shops and I would encourage anyone with such a stove or an open fire to purchase and install such a detector. If anyone is considering installing a wood burning stove then it is vitally important that the stove is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions”.

The Home Accident Prevention Northern Ireland group has produced a leaflet about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning/images/Carbon%20Monoxide%20SHSCT%20web.pdf|. Copies of the leaflet are available from Armagh City and District Council by contacting Environmental Health Officer Paul Swift at 028 37529626 or can be viewed/downloaded here.