“Carbon monoxide can kill in just 60 seconds, leaving no time for complacency.”
Higgins is adamant to warn people of the dangers of charcoal and disposable BBQs. “Due to the current heat wave, sales of BBQs have enormously increased. However users need to be aware of the very real danger of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from their BBQs.”
“Unfortunately BBQs continue to produce CO long after the flames have gone out, this fact is little known leading many consumers to believe it is safe to bring them indoors or inside their tents.”
“At European level I have lobbied to oblige manufacturers producing BBQs to clearly warn of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. The current warning, ‘DO NOT USE INDOORS’ is not sufficient as it fails to mention the connection between using these products indoors and the risk of CO poisoning, this risk is could be easily overlooked by the consumer who is likely to think only of the risk of fire.”
Higgins praised the excellent work of the National Safety Authority Ireland, “who have worked tirelessly to increase awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide and to ensure that information on the dangers of carbon monoxide is easily accessible via the information hotline 1850 79 79 79 or www.carbonmonoxide.ie “