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Carbon Monoxide Report
The State of Carbon Monoxide Awareness in the UK
A new survey by Firechief® Global highlights significant Carbon Monoxide knowledge awareness gaps across the UK.
Uncovering the state of the UK’s fire safety awareness, a 2024 report by Firechief® Global found that 40% of respondents are unaware of the signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
The new Firechief® survey revealed some significant knowledge gaps across the UK, with 36% unsure of what actions to take if a Carbon Monoxide alarm were to go off.
Hundreds of people are hospitalised each year as a result of Carbon Monoxide poisoning, with a spike in cases over the winter months in particular, and the report outlines some of the essential steps people should take to protect themselves and others from the dangers of Carbon Monoxide,
Key findings of the Firechief® Carbon Monoxide awareness report
The study, which surveyed 2,000 people from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in November 2024, uncovered some startling statistics including:
0%
are unsure of the signs of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. This rises to 54% for 16-to-24 year olds0%
are unsure of the symptoms of CO poisoning0%
did not know that chest pain is a symptom of Carbon Monoxide poisoning0%
of respondents did not know that dizziness could indicate Carbon Monoxide poisoning0%
of 16 to 24-year-olds were unable to state a single symptom of Carbon Monoxide poisoning0%
would think to turn off their appliances if a Carbon Monoxide alarm sounded0%
are unsure of what actions to take if a Carbon Monoxide detector alarm goes off0%
of those surveyed don’t have or are unsure if they have a Carbon Monoxide alarm installed-
Those living in London, Birmingham and Manchester rank lowest for Carbon Monoxide awareness. Only 57% of Londoners surveyed were aware of what the traits and symptoms are. Manchester ranked as the worst city in terms of Carbon Monoxide detectors installed with only 64% of respondents having one in place
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People living in Norwich, Brighton and Edinburgh rank best. Brighton ranked highest for Carbon Monoxide trait awareness with 68% of respondents describing the correct features such as that it is poisonous (84%) and odourless (79%).
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Edinburgh ranked best when it comes to having a Carbon Monoxide detector, with a chart-topping 86% of residents having one installed at home
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16 to 25-year-olds are 22% less likely to know that the gas is odourless, colourless (17%) and poisonous (20%) compared to national averages
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32% of respondents were unaware that gas stoves can produce Carbon Monoxide
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59% did not know that wood-burning fireplaces can be sources of the toxic gas
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While 73% would open windows immediately and 70% would evacuate the premises, only 57% would think to turn their appliances off and just over half – 54% – would think to call the emergency services
5 tips to safeguard your home from the dangers of carbon monoxide
This study highlights the crucial nature of providing education for people to confidently act to prevent and respond to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Ian Poole, Sales & Marketing Director at Firechief® Global, offers five tips to reduce the risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning at home:
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Install a Carbon Monoxide detector in your home
All homes with fuel-burning appliances should have Carbon Monoxide alarms fitted, including any room where there are gas boilers, coal fires or flues running through the room.
If you are a landlord, you have a duty of care to ensure that they are installed in your properties, otherwise, you may face fines up to £5,000 per property for non-compliance.
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Always get heating and cooking appliances installed by a professional
Installing heating and cooking devices yourself may seem like a way to save money, however, if they are not fitted correctly, they could increase the chances of a Carbon Monoxide leak. It may cost more, but using a professional will ensure that they are fitted to the highest standard, reducing the risk of a leak and giving you peace of mind.
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Have your appliances serviced regularly by trained professionals
It's important to ensure that your appliances, such as a gas boiler, are regularly serviced by a trained professional. This will ensure that appliances remain safe to use, whilst professionals will also be able to indicate if any faults could increase the likelihood of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
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Make sure your home is well-ventilated
Ensure that your home has adequate ventilation, particularly areas where you have combustion appliances. It is also important to make sure any appliances that release fumes, such as gas boilers, are connected to the outside.
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Never use a gas hob as a heat source for your home
Avoid leaving your gas stove on to provide heat for your kitchen. By doing this, you create a high risk of releasing Carbon Monoxide into your home, putting your health directly at risk.
When cooking using a gas hob, it is important to ventilate your kitchen, either by opening a window or using an extractor fan.
Disclaimer
The survey was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Firechief® Global, among a sample of 2000 Natrep UK. The data was collected between 26.11.2024 - 28.11.2024.
Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
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