A SAFETY appeal has been issued by fire crews following a worrying incident that could have ended in fatality.

Families across Cumbria are being asked to invest in a working carbon monoxide detector, after fire crews from Carlisle West, Carlisle West and Longtown Fire Stations were called to reports of an activated alarm on Toronto Street, Carlisle, on Monday (January 11).

At about 3.11pm, three appliances headed to the home and found a family of four outside the property, complaining of headaches and feeling unwell – the first signs of being overcome by carbon monoxide.

The source of the leak was believed to be a multi-fuel stove in the living room.

After being administered oxygen therapy, the family was taken to hospital by North West Ambulance Service paramedics.

Thankfully the home had a working carbon monoxide alarm which alerted the family to the odourless, tasteless and invisible danger overcoming them – something that saved their life, says Carlisle West Fire Station watch manager Steve Johnston.

"If it hadn't been for the carbon monoxide detector, we could have been dealing with four unconscious people, or God forbid, four fatalities," he said.

"Unfortunately, the fire service doesn't provide the detectors, but most large stores stock them for between £10 and £15.

"The problem with carbon monoxide is that you can't tell it's there – it's a silent killer, which is why it's so important to buy a working alarm."

Carbon monoxide leaks are caused by faulty fuel-burning appliances within a property, including boilers and multi-fuel stoves.

Mr Johnston explained the seriousness of being overcome by the gas, with people being affected firstly by headaches and dizziness, followed by unconsciousness and even death.

He added that it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to carbon monoxide, stressing that the fire service will always attend when called.

"We've been to quite a few false alarms, but it's fine because we'd rather be called. If in doubt, call the fire service and we'll always help," he said.

"It was so, so lucky that this family had a working carbon monoxide detector – the only way you'll know if carbon monoxide is in the room is with a working detector.

"If someone feels they are being overcome by the gas, get out the property, turn off the faulty appliance if you can, and call the fire service.

"Please, if there's one thing you do, just buy a carbon monoxide detector."

For more information, visit the fire and carbon monoxide safety page of the Cumbria County Council website.