MPs Welcome Carbon Monoxide Safety Advice For Boat Users
The All-Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group (APPCOG) has welcomed new safety advice issued by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch and Boat Safety Scheme, after the tragic death of two boat users following carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Barry Sheerman, the Labour Member of Parliament for Huddersfield, and Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Carbon Monoxide Group, said: “Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. You can’t smell it, see it or sense it, so you must use a carbon monoxide alarm. We welcome the Marine Accident Investigation Branch’s safety bulletin, and the Boat Safety Scheme’s advice, which highlights the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning – people are still being harmed and killed by the silent killer and their safety bulletin is an excellent way to raise awareness.”
Keith Simpson, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Broadland – the constituency in which the deaths occurred joined the APPCOG in welcoming the new advice: “The danger posed to my constituents, and users of the Broads, by carbon monoxide greatly concerns me. Everyone should make sure they are aware of the risks of carbon monoxide from motor engines and travel equipment. If you smell exhaust fumes, stop the engine and get off the boat. I urge all boat users, including my constituents, to buy carbon monoxide alarms for their boats, as it’s the most effective second line of defence after making sure their fuel burning appliances have been serviced by competent engineers. Let’s make sure we prevent further deaths and injuries from carbon monoxide poisoning."
