Camping, Barbecues and the Carbon Monoxide Risk

[Towsure 10]

It's extremely sad that we are hearing incoming news reports of a young life lost on a camping trip, thought to be due to Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

 

With this in mind we thought it worthwhile to bring this subject up - such incidents seem to be increasing and it would seem that people just don't know about the dangers. Google "Camper Dies" and you can see the common theme throughout the results.

 

One of the main causes seems to be the humble barbecue and moving smouldering coals into the tent porch for warmth as night draws in.

 

Barbecues are not simply a fire risk - when the flames die down and the risk of igniting a tent appears to have gone, NEVER be tempted to move it into the tent as a heat source. The charcoal is still burning and as it does, it consumes oxygen and emits carbon monoxide - odourless, invisible and in a confined space such as a tent, lethal. Even if there is a draft blowing through, ventilation panels are not adequate protection against deadly CO poisoning

 

Similarly, gas appliances such as gas heaters or fridges rely on the burning of fuel, again giving off carbon monoxide.

 

If you are cold at night, put on an extra layer, or use a sleeping bag liner. NEVER bring your barbecue into the tent. Please don't put your life at risk

[Mr Bloom 10]

As the camping season is upon us, I just wanted to flag this sensible post up again.

 

I also have a carbon monoxide monitor now for when I go camping.

[Allen 38]

On the same theme.....it's worth remembering that gas detectors in caravans should be located at ground level.

Calor (butane gas) is heavier than air and a low level detector ensures early detection.

The same detector in a home situation (natural gas) should be at high level.