Warning as symptoms when you 'come home' could be 'invisible' winter killer

Hidden Winter Danger: Carbon Monoxide Warning

Britons are being urged to stay alert for subtle symptoms that appear at home, which could point to an invisible threat — carbon monoxide poisoning. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that around 20 people in the UK die each year because of accidental exposure to this toxic gas.

What Is Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas produced when fuels like gas, oil, coal, or wood do not burn completely. It builds up indoors when ventilation is poor or heating equipment is faulty.

Common Symptoms

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for common illnesses. According to health authorities, signs may include:

Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Weakness and fatigue
Chest pain
Confusion

UKHSA warns that symptoms typically worsen when people are at home — particularly during winter when heating systems run more frequently — and often improve when they leave the house.

How to Stay Safe

The agency advises homeowners to:

Ensure regular servicing of all fuel-burning appliances by qualified professionals.
Keep chimneys and flues clear and ventilated.
Install carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with gas or solid fuel devices.
Avoid blocking air vents or using unvented appliances indoors.

Expert Warning

A UKHSA spokesperson noted,

“Carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. That’s why it is crucial to have alarms installed and to act immediately if you feel unwell at home but better when you go outside.”

They stressed that taking preventive steps could save lives, especially during colder months.

Key Takeaway

Carbon monoxide is a hidden winter danger that can mimic everyday ailments. Awareness, regular maintenance, and home detectors are the simplest defenses against this silent killer.

Author summary: UK health officials highlight carbon monoxide as a deadly but preventable risk in winter; proper ventilation and alarms remain vital safeguards.

Daily Express — 2025-12-01