Assembly Member for Wrexham Lesley Griffiths is pledging her support for a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO).
Next Monday (18th November) is the beginning of the 8th annual Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week and local AM Lesley Griffiths is hoping Wrexham residents take note and the campaign can help protect lives across Wales.
CO-Awareness is a registered charity that supports the many victims of carbon monoxide poisoning, their families and friends.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and highly toxic gas that not only kills many people each year but causes many more serious injuries. Poisoning by carbon monoxide is almost certainly under-diagnosed and there could be a large number of people being exposed and suffering the ill effects of exposure.
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuel. Potential sources include gas, coal, oil, wood, gas stoves, fires and boilers. It is important appliances are serviced every year as inadequate maintenance can lead to poor combustion of fuel and waste products, often the main causes of poisoning.
To coincide with the start of the campaign, CO-Awareness will launch its new and updated website www.covictim.org next Monday (18th November). The charity’s ‘Carbon Monoxide Android Phone App’ will also be available to download.
CO-Awareness is also keen to highlight the fact homeowners can apply for a free gas safety check via their gas provider if they are on a qualifying benefit.
Commenting, Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths said:
“The weeklong campaign aims to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide.”
“The new website contains plenty of advice and information about the key issues as well as useful hints, tips and guidance for individuals concerned.”
“Many people do not know enough about the dangers of carbon monoxide so it is important CO-Awareness’ campaign is supported and emphasised to help protect the lives of people across Wrexham and Wales.”
