As the Fleurieu cools down in the winter months, everyone is being warned of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from household gas appliances.

Since 1 July 2020, carbon monoxide poisoning has resulted in the hospitalisation of 15 people in South Australia.

MFS Community Engagement Officer Angelo Mastripolito says the numbers could rise due to increased use of gas appliances during winter.

“Increasingly, people are turning their backyard area into an inviting enclosed space, with the installation of blinds, fit for cooking and entertaining all year round,” Mr Mastripolito says.

“This means that typical outdoor equipment and appliances, such as gas fuelled barbeques, patio outdoor heaters or ethanol fuelled heaters are being used in an indoor environment.” 

Such appliances, when operated in poorly ventilated areas or indoors, produce a build-up of carbon monoxide which is then inhaled by residents.

Technical Regulator Rob Faunt says people need to be aware of the dangers and know how to ensure their safety when using gas appliances.

“People should have their gas appliances professionally installed in areas with adequate ventilation and serviced every two years by qualified tradespersons,” he says.

“It is also important that all gas appliances are maintained and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and that heaters or appliances marked as ‘outdoor use only’ are not used indoors.’’

Michaela Hobby, SA Health Director of Health Protection, explains that carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer’ because it has no colour, smell or taste and is extremely hard to detect.

“Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include persistent tiredness, shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, vomiting and loss of consciousness,” she says.

“Those most vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning are babies and young children, pregnant women, the elderly and immobile and those with respiratory problems.”

Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact triple zero immediately.