BEWARE OF BBQ CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING RISK
Whether at home or on holiday summer is BBQ time, but it’s important to be aware they can pose a real risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if used in poorly ventilated or confined areas like inside a tent or the awning of a caravan. The Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) issues some timely advice.
09 July 2015 – Too many families are still unaware of the carbon monoxide poisoning risks involved with taking lit or smouldering BBQs inside tents, awnings or caravans. Even at home, a BBQ used in a sheltered or confined area can pose a danger from the “silent killer”; that’s according to timely advice from the Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES).
B&ES spokesman Mark Oakes, comments, “Camping and caravanning has never been so popular, especially with more and more British families opting for ‘staycations’. But they do need to be aware that carbon monoxide can build up very quickly in enclosed spaces, such as tents and awnings, to levels that can kill. And with the sudden chill of evening they might be tempted to use the still burning coals of a BBQ for warmth. But this could prove fatal; BBQs should never be used or left inside tents or awnings once they have been lit. Even at home there can be a danger, for example taking a BBQ inside a garage or car port if it starts to rain.
“Carbon monoxide is the most common cause of fatal poisoning in the UK, with 40 people each year being killed by it and thousands more taken ill. Although most incidents still occur in the home, there is a risk from exposure in holiday accommodation, caravans, motor homes, tents and boats as these often use fuel burning appliances in what can be a poorly ventilated area. To stay safe this summer follow our top five tips when you’re using a BBQ:
- Never take a smouldering or lit BBQ into a tent, caravan or cabin.
- Keep BBQs away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs, garden waste, tents or caravan awnings as they pose a fire risk.
- Never use a BBQ inside to keep you warm and never leave a lit BBQ unattended or while sleeping.
- Always ensure there is an adequate supply of fresh air in the area where the BBQ is being used.
- Always take a portable, battery operated CO alarm away with you on holiday – they can be purchased for as little as £15.
For information about the services offered by B&ES members in the residential sector visit: www.trustmark.org.uk.
Ends
Issued on behalf of the Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) by Next Step Marketing Ltd
Media enquiries to: Rhian Kelly. Tel: 44(0)1256 472020;
Fax: 44(0)1256 471010; E-mail: rhian@nextstepmarketing.co.uk
Notes to editors
Since its formation in 1904, B&ES, the Building & Engineering Services Association (formerly the HVCA) has represented the interests of companies engaged in a wide range of building and engineering services including domestic heating and renewable technologies.
B&ES members are subject to regular, third-party inspection and assessment of their technical competence and commercial capability, carried out by an independent certification body at least every three years.
B&ES members who undertake gas installations are registered with Gas Safe – the gas safety watchdog body – and are also members of TrustMark, the Government-endorsed scheme designed to direct customers towards reliable tradespeople.
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