Firefighters are reminding people to fit carbon monoxide alarms in their home after being called to a carbon monoxide leak at a residential block on William Bonney in Clapham.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus located and isolated a carbon monoxide leak coming from an industrial boiler in the basement. A man, a woman and three children were taken to hospital. London Ambulance Service crews also assessed a further three people at the scene.
Crews used specialist equipment to ventilate the building and confirm that there were no elevated readings of carbon monoxide remaining.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “You can't taste, see or smell CO fumes, but it can kill in minutes.
"It's really important to fit a CO alarm in all rooms containing fuel burning appliances, ensuring that the alarm is able to be heard throughout your home. When sleeping, it is important that your alarm would wake you if it sounds.
"It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and learn what to do if you suspect someone may be affected.”
The Brigade was called at 2211 and the incident was over for firefighters by 0300. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Clapham, Brixton, Battersea and Tooting fire stations attended the scene.
CO poisoning symptoms:
These symptoms also apply to your pets – so keep an eye on them too. Poisoning symptoms can easily be confused with just feeling unwell, which is why CO poisoning is so dangerous, and so often missed.