Raising awareness of carbon monoxide dangers

24/Jan/2009

In the House of Commons this week I presented prizes to the winners of a schools poster competition to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible but highly dangerous killer. We need to do everything we can to make sure parents and children know the risks, and know how to keep safe.

A few months ago I announced that Personal, Social and Health Education will be compulsory in all schools. This subject includes learning about risks, and whilst it's up to schools to decide what they cover, I think promoting awareness about poisonous gases like carbon monoxide is exactly the kind of thing we should be doing.

That's why I have been happy to support this competition. It's a great way to teach children about the dangers of carbon monoxide as part of their lessons. I'll be encouraging all schools in my constituency - and across the country - to get involved again this year. More information on the competition is available on the Carbon Monoxide and Gas Safety Society website.