South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue
  • In emergencies call 999
  • General enquiries 0114 272 7202
Two hands hold a carbon monoxide alarm. The alarm is white with a series of small LED lights on the front.

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent, odour-free gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of fossil fuels – such as coal, gas, oil and wood. This can be extremely dangerous and generally happens when appliances are faulty, haven’t been fitted properly or aren’t regularly serviced.

Where can this happen?

Carbon monoxide can be produced by:

  • Charcoal or gas barbeques
  • Blocked or poorly maintained chimneys or flues
  • Gas cookers or clay ovens
  • Gas boilers and gas fires
  • Open fires

What you should do if you suspect something?

If you suspect you or someone you know has got CO poisoning, you should leave the property immediately and, if they are showing signs of poisoning or have collapsed, call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Then, before you re-enter your home, you should call the 24 hour Gas Emergency Line on 0800 111 999. Tell them what has happened and take on board their safety advice.

Get an alarm…

You should have a CO detector in all rooms containing fuel burning appliances. These should be purchased from a reputable supplier and it is important they are certified to British Standard EN50291 and have the British or European approval mark, such as the Kite mark.

Landlords… 

As a landlord, you should be aware that you are required by law in England to install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room that contains a solid fuel burning appliance.

This content was last updated on February 04th, 2022