Be carbon monoxide safe on holiday this summer

As the UK’s gas safety watchdog, CORGI, is responsible for highlighting the dangers of Carbon Monoxide both in the home as well as third party accommodation in the UK and abroad such as holiday lets, caravans, B&B’s, apartments and hotels where people stay overnight, for a short break or longer seasonal holiday. Here, CORGI gives advice for ensuring your summer holiday is carbon monoxide safe.

Holidaying Abroad

For UK residents escaping the rain by holidaying abroad this year, your travel company should be members of The Association of British Travel Agents, who should be doing local inspections.

Holidaying in the UK

Landlords who own different types of holiday accommodation, and hotel establishments in the UK must have their appliances checked every year.

Simple Steps to CO Safety

To further ensure the safety of you and your family during your stay in holiday accommodation both in the UK and abroad, CORGI recommends the following basic advice:

- Be Alert

Just because there isn't a gas appliance in your accommodation, still look out for signs as Carbon Monoxide can seep through from other rooms. Remember, it isn't just gas appliances that cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning - oil, wood and coal appliances do too

- Know the symptoms

If you feel unwell - flu symptoms, headache, tiredness, whilst you are in your accommodation, but feel better when you are outdoors, speak to the hotel or tour operator. Tell them what you think it could be, and seek medical advice

- Don't misuse a gas appliance

- Don't dry clothes on a boiler or water heater for example

- Don't block the ventilation - it is there for a reason

- Purchase an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm

You can purchase audible carbon monoxide alarms from DIY stores such as B&Q, some supermarkets and online at sites such as Trustcorgi.com.

- When on holiday place the alarm near an appliance or in your bedroom

And don’t forget to use it when you get home as well.