Traveling abroad to escape the cold and dreary winter months in the UK is something a lot of people do, but in the excitement of getting into your swimwear again and lounging in the sun, it’s easy to forget the message that CORGI is pushing to holiday makers, to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

CORGI, the UK’s gas safety watchdog is urging people to be vigilant to the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning when spending winter somewhere warmer this year by calling for all holiday makers to take an audible carbon monoxide alarm away with them, wherever they may be venturing to.

Known as the ‘silent killer’, carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous substance that you cannot see, smell or taste. Carbon monoxide is potentially fatal, and even low levels of the poison can leave you with lasting damage to your health. It is produced when a carbon-based fuel (gas, wood, oil or coal) is burnt without an adequate oxygen supply, such as boilers and cookers, which means taking an audible carbon monoxide alarm should be high on your list of important things to pack, along with your sun cream and snorkel.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the ‘flu’, and can include: headaches, dizziness, tiredness, nausea, stomach and chest pains. If you feel ill whilst using an appliance, but feel better once you are in fresh air, you could be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.