Australians are being warned over what experts are dubbing a “silent killer” this summer, that can end a life in as little as three minutes.
Industry specialists say many households might be unaware that carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can happen during the warmer months too, despite it being more associated with heaters during winter.
In the country, accidental CO poisoning causes around 50 hospital admissions and up to 10 deaths annually — though the true number may be underreported. Speaking to Yahoo News, Cathy Brand, CEO of Brooks Australia warned the public to look for the signs.
“Any household appliance that burns natural gas, coal, oil, bottled gas, paraffin, wood, petrol, diesel or charcoal will produce some levels of CO,” Brand told Yahoo.
“This is especially concerning in summer, when CO produced by barbecues, cars, and boat engines can become a hidden danger, when Aussies are focused on enjoying time with loved ones – potentially overlooking this hazard.”
Four people were rushed to hospital with carbon monoxide poisoning last year after they used a charcoal BBQ to heat their home in Sydney. Source: NCA
What is CO and how can you stay safe?
CO is an odourless and colourless gas that can cause severe poisoning or death when inhaled. It’s produced by burning fuels like gas, wood, or charcoal in poorly ventilated spaces.
Brand said there’s a “knowledge gap” that’s “leaving households across the country vulnerable to the dangers”.
“85 per cent of Australians either lack a CO alarm or are unsure if they have one,” she said. “More worryingly, over a quarter (28 per cent) of Aussies don’t know the difference between a CO alarm and a smoke alarm.”
Common sources of CO poisoning include faulty gas heaters, indoor use of outdoor appliances like barbecues, and vehicle exhaust in enclosed spaces.
CO poisoning prevents oxygen from binding to red blood cells, leading to symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. High levels can cause unconsciousness, brain damage, or death within minutes. “The symptoms—such as headaches, drowsiness, nausea, and fatigue—can often go unnoticed as they mimic the flu,” Brand said.
In 2022, six people were hospitalised after suffering from CO poisoning at a western Sydney home as a result of using a BBQ as a heater.
Last year, four people, including a child, were rushed also to hospital with CO poisoning after they similarly used charcoal BBQ to heat their home in Wentworthville.
Experts are urging Australians to install carbon monoxide detectors. Source: Getty
“At Brooks Australia, we are encouraging Australians to stay safe this summer by educating family members about these symptoms, and by installing CO alarms in the home to help enhance early detection of CO and ensure the alarm sound levels are increased throughout the house so there’s no chance of sleeping through,” Brand said.
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