Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: [Insert Name]
[Insert phone number]
[Insert e-mail]
Dear XXXXX
XXXX is getting behind Carbon Monoxide Awareness week.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness week, to be held from 1 – 7 May 2017 and XXXX is showing their
support for the cause by hosting an awareness raising event at XXXXX.
The aim of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week is to raise awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning
across Australia and to advise on preventative measures that people can take to reduce the risk.
Key Messages:
What is carbon monoxide (CO)?
 CO is known as the silent killer because it is an invisible, tasteless and odourless gas that can
kill in minutes.
 CO is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, coal, and wood do not burn completely in fuelburning appliances. These include gas heaters, gas or wood fireplaces, hot water heaters,
stoves, barbeques, portable fuel-burning heaters and generators as well as vehicles.
Know the symptoms of CO exposure:
 Know the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness,
nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness.
 Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu – often it can be
misdiagnosed or untreated.
How to stay safe:
 Gas and fuel-burning appliances are required to be serviced by a licensed gasfitter, once every
two years at a minimum.
 Make sure the gasfitter you choose, uses a carbon monoxide analyser.
 Do not bring outdoor fuel-burning appliances inside.
 Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm as a secondary line of defence.
 Check for danger signs that your gas and fuel-burning appliances aren’t working correctly e.g.
lazy yellow or orange flames instead of crisp blue ones, black marks/stains on or around the
appliance and too much condensation in the room.
 Ensure all flues, vents and chimneys are unblocked and functioning properly.
During the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 01– 07 May 2016, The Chase and Tyler Foundation
are encouraging everyone to learn how to keep safe within your home and to maintain and service
your fuel burning appliances.
To learn more about the dangers, symptoms and preventative measures of carbon monoxide
poisoning, go to www.chaseandtyler.org.au
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