Stay safe this winter
Monday, 15 July 2019
Inner West Council is urging everyone to stay safe this winter and avoid using dangerous heating methods.
Old or makeshift gas heaters can be dangerous if they are not properly maintained.
A 2012 report by The Allen Consulting Group estimated that each year, one death and 21.3 injuries are caused by CO poisoning by gas appliances in Australia.
One of the main issues is the carbon monoxide found in fumes produced by gas burning appliances.
Carbon monoxide can leak from faulty heaters and can be lethal as it cannot be seen and has no smell.
What you can do to stay safe?
• DO NOT use outdoor heaters inside
• NEVER burn charcoal or BBQ coals for heating inside
• If you are using gas heating, install a flued heater
• Ensure your heater is used in a well-ventilated area
• DON’T leave heaters unattended
• ALWAYS supervise children around heaters
• Have heaters installed and serviced by a qualified gas-fitter
• Have heaters serviced regularly (every two years)
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning
Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in the bloodstream and deprives the heart, brain and vital organs of oxygen.
Symptoms can include:
• headaches
• nausea
• vomiting and dizziness
Prolonged exposure to this gas can have severe consequences including falling unconscious, and in some instances, cause death.
If you think someone has been exposed to carbon monoxide, immediately contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
For a copy of this media release in Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Greek, Arabic or Vietnamese, contact the Communications team.
Elizabeth Heath | Media and Communications Coordinator +61 2 9392 5334 | E: Elizabeth.Heath@innerwest.nsw.gov.au