Firefighters are reminding people to fit carbon monoxide alarms in their home after being called to a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a house on East Acton Lane in Acton.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus located and isolated a carbon monoxide leak caused by a petrol generator in the basement of a detached house. Ten people left the building before the Brigade arrived. Five women were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
Crews ventilated the building and used specialist equipment to 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 2011 and the incident was over for firefighters by 2320. Two fire engines from Acton and Chiswick fire stations and two fire rescue units from Wembley and Euston fire stations attended the scene.
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.