shropsCOShropshire FRS have expanded their campaign to educate the public about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning after the tragic death of a 14-year-old girl. 

Last year Station Manager Shaun Baker a coroner how SFRS have carried out a reconstruction of the events leading up to the death of Hannah Thomas-Jones from carbon monoxide poisonning at a family barbeque.

The evidence gathered by SFRS from this process has been shared with MPs and after a meeting with campaigners, SM Baker helped set up a national awareness campaign to protect people from "the silent killer".

The Incident Commander from that day said strenuous efforts have been made to highlight the dangers posed by carbon monoxide associated with barbecues following other deaths in similar circumstances.

"Many people do not realise that incomplete combustion after flames have died down can result in the emission of odourless carbon monoxide."

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as headaches & dizziness can mimic many common ailments, and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simply tiredness.

After reconstructing the incident using the same tent and the same type of barbecue, SM Baker said he believed the fatal fumes had “pooled” in the area where Hannah was sleeping.

Community fire safety officers at Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, who educate the public about fire prevention have now increased their warnings to campers and caravanners in the county as a result of the tragedy. They have also included it in their fire prevention advice to schools.

The national campaign is led by mum Lynn Griffiths who suffered carbon monoxide poisoning with her family in their new home for ten years. The organisation has alerted the Caravan Club and other UK holiday organisations to pass on strong warnings about the dangers of carbon monoxide.

GP surgeries are also receiving more information to help doctors diagnose the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning which can mirror mental health issues.

For more information visit www.covictim.org

Posted 22/01/2013 by richard.hook@pavpub.com