Newquay carbon monoxide tragedy
Following news of a death at Great Western Hotel in Newquay from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, local MPs have called for greater understanding of the effects of this silent killer. (CO)
North Cornwall’s MP, Dan Rogerson said:
“This is a real tragedy and our thoughts are with this unfortunate guest’s family.
“It’s long been standard practice to fit smoke detectors in hotels and other public buildings but carbon monoxide remains a silent killer because CO alarms are not nearly as widely fitted.”
Colin Breed, MP for South East Cornwall, and Director of the Charity CO-Gas Safety said:
“Many people remain poorly informed of the very real danger of carbon monoxide poisoning, not just in hotels but in their workplaces or even in their own homes. Despite numerous campaigns it is still up to charities to try and raise the funds to create awareness campaigns. Surely it has become clear that the industry which makes billions of pounds from consumers should pay for these safety campaigns.
“It is high time the Government took real steps to combat this sort of tragedy. This is not the first time it has hit the headlines, and until we see a change in thinking, it will not be the last.”
Note:
· CO Alarms are available in DIY stores for around £20
· Further information on CO is available from the Carbon Monoxide and Gas Safety Society website at: http://www.co-gassafety.co.uk/
