Firefighters and medics called to carbon monoxide emergency in Cornwall
One woman was treated by the ambulance service after the call-out to a home in Liskeard
A woman has been treated by paramedics after a carbon monoxide scare in Cornwall.
Firefighters wore specialist breathing gear to check the levels at a home in Liskeard.
An environmental officer and the gas company were also called to the scene on Saturday morning.
"One appliance from Liskeard Fire Station and a HMEPA Officer were mobilised to a carbon monoxide incident in a residential property.
"The crew wore two breathing apparatus and used a gas monitor to test the level of carbon monoxide in the property.
"The gas was isolated and the gas company were requested to attend.
"Ambulance were on scene to take care of one female casualty".
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and how can I prevent it?
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can mimic many common ailments and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simple tiredness.
Headache, Feeling sick (nausea) and dizziness. You may also feel tired and confused, and some people are sick (vomit) and have abdominal pain.
The symptoms of CO poisoning can resemble those of food poisoning and the flu because they have similar symptoms. However, unlike flu, CO poisoning does not cause a high temperature.
Symptoms that may come on later include confusion, loss of memory, and problems with co-ordination.
You can read more about the symptoms on the NHS website here.
How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Make sure all appliances are installed and maintained by a professional.
- Keep chimney flues free from blockages - for more information visit chimney fire safety.
- Ensure your home has enough ventilation and airbricks are not blocked.
- Protect your family from this silent killer by fitting a CO alarm approved to BS EN 50291.
If your alarm sounds or you suspect a leak, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service has this advice:
- Stop using all appliances, switch them off, and open doors and windows to ventilate the property.
- Evacuate the property immediately. Stay calm.
- Call the emergency number - 0800 111 999 - to report the incident, or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Gas Safety Advice Line on 0800 300 363.
- Seek immediate medical help and advice if you think you have been exposed to carbon monoxide.
- Go immediately to your local Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) if you are feeling unwell after being exposed to carbon monoxide.
- Never go back into the property, wait for advice from the emergency services.
You can read more safety advice on Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service's website here.