Warnings of silent winter killer

THE Victorian Building Authority is reminding Victorians of the dangers associated with gas heaters as people seek to warm up over winter.

State building surveyor Andrew Cialini said injuries and even death by carbon monoxide poisoning still happen in the cold season despite growing awareness.

“Sadly, each winter sees stories of serious poisonings, close calls and worse as the silent killer of carbon monoxide poisoning strikes homes across Victoria,” he said.

“Residents are reminded to get gas heater appliances serviced regularly, once every two years, and discuss the danger of faulty or poorly maintained indoor gas heaters with plumbers.”

In response to Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week earlier this month the VBA, Energy Safe Victoria and Master Plumbers are hosting a gas safety webinar for plumbers throughout May and June about the most up to date information on testing and servicing gas appliances.

Residents can also access their own resources about gas heater maintenance on the VBA’s website, like how to find the right gasfitter and what to do if a carbon monoxide spillage has been found at their home.

To register for a gas safety webinar, professionals can visit bit.ly/3y6byqO and resources for residents can be found at vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/guides/carbon-monoxide.