Dorset Fire and Rescue issue warning after carbon monoxide leak that left two people unconscious
They were found just in time at a beach hut in Portland this morning.
Last updated 3rd Nov 2021
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued a warning following a carbon monoxide leak this morning that left two people and a dog unconscious.
It happened at a beach hut in Portland - the people managed to raise the alarm before they were overcome by gas fumes.
Two fire crews from Portland had to break into the hut to rescue them, and administer oxygen therapy until the ambulance crews arrived.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are now urging the public to be more aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide.
Station Manager Russ True said:
“The affected people have been very lucky. Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless and tasteless, but it is also extremely dangerous.
"Without a CO detector, you have no way of knowing that you’re being poisoned until the damage is already being done.”
He added: “CO detectors can be bought in most supermarkets and DIY stores. They’re not expensive and they save lives.
"These people had experienced some advanced symptoms but were very fortunate that they were still able to raise the alarm before they came to any serious harm.”
Most cases of CO poisoning are caused by gas appliances and flues that have not been properly installed or maintained, or are poorly ventilated.
Signs that indicate incomplete combustion and may result in the production of CO2 include:
- Yellow or orange rather than blue flames (except in fuel effect fires or flueless appliances)
- Soot or yellow/brown staining around or on appliances
- Increased condensation inside windows