Graham Evans MP is encouraging caravan and camping sites to raise awareness of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning while camping and caravanning during the summer months.
Tragic deaths occur every year from summertime CO poisoning, normally caused by people bringing gas or charcoal BBQs into tents and other enclosed spaces.
Graham Evans said: “Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas – often dubbed the ‘Silent Killer’ – and can kill quickly if inhaled in high concentrations. The symptoms of poisoning are similar to flu or food poisoning, and include headaches, nausea and dizziness. That is why I have written to parks and camping sites in my constituency asking them to take action.
“Most people don’t think of Carbon monoxide poisoning as a threat in summer months. Faulty household boilers or other heating appliances are usually thought of as the most dangerous equipment, but summertime recreational equipment, such as charcoal BBQs and portable gas stoves, can also produce lethal doses of the gas, especially within confined spaces such as tents.
I have written to all caravan sites and camping parks in Weaver Vale asking them to remind people of these top safety tips:
• Never take a barbecue into a tent, caravan or motorhome. A warm, smouldering barbecue will give off poisonous carbon monoxide.
• Never place a lit barbecue near the sleeping area outside your tent.
• Never use a fuel-burning appliance to heat your tent or awning. Gas and kerosene heaters, unless they are permanently fitted in a caravan or motorhome, should only be used outside.
• Never run a gas-, petrol- or diesel-powered generator inside a caravan, motorhome, tent or awning.
• Do not cook with a stove inside your tent or awning, unless there is an area specifically designed or this purpose, and you are sure there is adequate ventilation.
• Always use a portable carbon monoxide alarm.
“It’s vital that people take the simple summer steps to save lives from CO poisoning.”