Warning over ‘silent killer’ after 'carbon monoxide' tragedy
Homeowners are being urged to be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning after a suspected leak led to the death of a pensioner.
The woman, aged in her 70s, died at her home in Old Penkridge Road, Cannock, on Tuesday.
Her husband, 75, remains in a critical condition in hospital.
Emergency services were called to the detached house, which backs onto Cannock Park, at around 10.20am.
Now, West Midlands Ambulance Service are warning people to be understand the risks of the poisonous gas, often referred to as the silent killer because it has no smell or taste.
Symptoms are similar to those of flu, food poisoning, viral infections and fatigue, which is why it’s common for people to mistake the poisoning for something else.
The service says that the six main symptoms to look out for are headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse and a loss of consciousness.
An ambulance spokesman said: “Incorrectly installed, poorly maintained or poorly ventilated household appliances – such as cookers, heaters and boilers – are the most common causes of accidental exposure to carbon monoxide.
“Other possible causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include blocked flues and chimneys, burning fuel in an enclosed or unventilated space or faulty and blocked car exhausts.
“After it is breathed in, it enters your bloodstream and mixes with haemoglobin – the part of red blood cells that carry oxygen around your body – to form carboxyhemoglobin.
“When this happens, the blood is no longer able to carry oxygen, and this lack of oxygen causes the body’s cells and tissue to fail and die.”
The death in Cannock is being treated as unexplained but is not believed to be suspicious, according to police. A report is being prepared for the coroner.
The ambulance service spokesman added: “It is important to be aware of the dangers and identify any appliances in your house that could potentially leak.
“Make sure chimneys and flues are swept regularly and get a carbon monoxide alarm fitted to keep you and your family safe.”
Ward councillor Maureen Freeman knew the man and woman, who have not been named, and has sent her sympathies to the family.
“It is so sad,” she said. “I was only talking with them no longer than three weeks ago in the town.
“He has his own window cleaning business along with his son. They had been looking forward to their retirement. He is a very jovial man, very kind and sincere. They have been local residents for many years.”
