A HEALTH body has urged residents in Cumbria to take care following the floods. 

Public Health England North West is advising residents affected by flooding in Cumbria to follow simple guidelines to ensure that they remain safe.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the most significant risks to health after a flood, and PHE warns to never use petrol or diesel generators indoors when pumping out water or drying homes because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Dr John Astbury from PHE North West’s Cumbria and Lancashire Health Protection Team said: “Many of these generators are not designed to be used indoors and can quickly fill a room with deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which is difficult to detect because you can’t see, smell or taste it.

“People should not use petrol or diesel generators, or other similar fuel-driven equipment, indoors because the CO in exhaust gases can quickly build up to levels that are deadly.

“At high levels, CO poisoning can cause sudden collapse, loss of consciousness and death. Other symptoms include headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, chest pains, nausea and vomiting. If a person is suffering any symptoms, they should immediately go outside and call NHS 111 for advice.”

This same caution applies to using any other fossil fuel and wood burning appliances. Have this equipment checked by an appropriately-registered engineer before turning it on. 

When your central heating source is considered safe, keep the thermostat between 20-22°C for steady drying. People should also never use a barbeque to cook food or heat a home because of the risk of CO poisoning.

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