The Silent Killer in Aussie Homes: What Every Australian Needs to Know About Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the “silent killer” and for good reason. It’s an invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas that can cause serious illness or death in a matter of minutes. While many Australians are familiar with the dangers of fire and intruders, fewer are aware of the threat carbon monoxide poses, especially during the cooler months when gas heaters are commonly used.

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels like gas, wood, coal, petrol, or oil don’t burn completely. It can leak from:

Gas heaters and stoves

Wood or gas fireplaces

Portable generators

BBQs and charcoal burners

Vehicle exhausts in enclosed spaces (like garages)

What makes CO particularly dangerous is its ability to build up in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces without any warning. You can’t smell, taste, or see it—which is why many victims never realise it’s there until it’s too late.

Why It’s a Risk in Australian Homes

While carbon monoxide poisoning is a known issue worldwide, certain factors make it a pressing concern in Australia:

Cooler Climates and Older Heating Systems

In states like Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, and parts of South Australia, many homes rely on gas heaters to stay warm during winter. Some of these appliances are outdated or unserviced, increasing the risk of CO leaks.

Portable Appliances in Enclosed Spaces

Aussies often use outdoor heaters or barbecues in semi-enclosed areas like patios or garages during get-togethers. However, these spaces don’t offer enough ventilation for safe use.

Vehicle Emissions in Garages

Letting your car idle in a closed garage—even briefly—can cause CO to build up quickly, putting your household at risk.

Common Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Because CO mimics flu-like symptoms, it’s often misdiagnosed, delaying urgent treatment. Symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, depending on the concentration.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
• Severe Poisoning Symptoms:
• Chest pain
• Vision problems
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death (if exposure is prolonged and untreated)

Important: If multiple people in the home feel sick at the same time—especially in winter when heaters are running—it could be a sign of CO poisoning.

Prevention Tips: How to Stay Safe

The good news? CO poisoning is preventable. Here’s how to protect yourself and your loved ones:

Install a Certified CO Alarm

Place an Australian Standards-certified CO alarm (AS 3786:2014) near:

Bedrooms

Living rooms

Gas appliances

Garages (if attached to the home)

Test your alarm regularly and replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Service Gas Appliances Regularly

Have your gas appliances inspected and serviced by a licensed gas fitter every two years. This includes:

• Gas heaters
• Ovens
• Hot water systems
• Flues and chimneys

In Victoria, it’s mandatory under rental laws for landlords to do this every two years.

NEVER Use Outdoor Appliances Indoors

This includes:

Charcoal or gas BBQs

Portable butane cookers

Gas patio heaters

Using these inside or in enclosed spaces (even with open windows) can be deadly.

Keep Your Home Ventilated

• Don’t block air vents or flues
• Open windows periodically when using heaters
• Avoid using exhaust fans in the same room as open-flue appliances

Know the Emergency Steps

If you suspect CO poisoning:

• Turn off all appliances
• Open windows and doors
• Get everyone outside
• Call Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance
• Seek medical attention even if symptoms seem to improve outside

Who’s Most at Risk?

Some groups are especially vulnerable to CO poisoning, including:

• Children and infants
• Pregnant women
• Elderly people
• People with heart disease or respiratory problems
• Pets (they can be affected before humans notice symptoms)

Australian Resources & Guidelines

Energy Safe Victoria: Offers safety tips, inspection guides, and appliance servicing rules.

See their “Be Sure” initiative with safety tips, appliance servicing guidelines, and CO awareness measures:
https://www.energysafe.vic.gov.au/be-sure

NSW Fair Trading: Provides tenant and landlord responsibilities regarding gas safety.

Covers landlord & tenant responsibilities, required servicing, and ventilation standards:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/rules/gas-safety-a-rental-property

Product Safety Australia: Lists recalls and safety alerts for faulty gas appliances and alarms.

Search for recalls and safety alerts on gas appliances and CO alarms:
https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls

You can also check if your current appliances are subject to recalls or hazard alerts through the Product Safety Australia website.

Carbon monoxide may be silent, but awareness is powerful. As Australians prepare for winter or continue enjoying their outdoor lifestyle year-round, it’s crucial to make carbon monoxide safety a priority.

Protect your home with a CO alarm and get your gas appliances serviced regularly.

It could save your life.

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