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When the sun comes out, most of us start thinking about BBQs, camping trips and family holidays. What we don't often think about is Carbon Monoxide.
As part of our Live Life Safe campaign, we're sharing practical, seasonal advice to help people living with dementia and their carers stay safe, warm and independent all year round. Because home safety isn't just for winter—and neither is Carbon Monoxide.
Why talk about Carbon Monoxide in summer?
Many people associate Carbon Monoxide (CO) with boilers and cold weather, but the risk doesn't disappear when temperatures rise.
BBQs, camping stoves, caravans, motorhomes and holiday accommodation can all produce Carbon Monoxide if they're used incorrectly or in enclosed spaces. Even a BBQ that appears to have gone out can continue to release this poisonous gas.
The silent danger
Carbon Monoxide is colourless, odourless and tasteless, which is why it's often called the silent killer. Early symptoms - including headaches, dizziness and nausea - can easily be mistaken for dehydration, tiredness or feeling under the weather, particularly during hot weather.
Four simple ways to stay safe this summer
Never use a BBQ inside a tent, caravan, awning, gazebo or enclosed space.
Don't use camping stoves or portable gas appliances to heat enclosed areas.
If you're staying in a caravan or holiday home, check gas appliances have been serviced and consider taking a portable Carbon Monoxide alarm.
Make sure your home has a working Carbon Monoxide alarm that's within its expiry date.
Live Life Safe
This is the first in our seasonal Live Life Safe campaign, bringing practical advice throughout the year to help people living with dementia and those who care for them stay safe at home and beyond.
Sometimes it's the smallest actions that make the biggest difference - and taking a few moments to think about Carbon Monoxide this summer could help protect the people you love.
If you'd like to know more about our Home Energy Service or speak to our Home Energy Advisor, Kelly, we'd love to hear from you.