Data obtained by campaign group Project SHOUT, obtained by Freedom of Information requests found that UK Fire & Rescue Services have responded to 7,703 call-outs to suspected CO poisoning incidents this year, up from 3,876 in 2020.
In Cumbria, cases have risen by 145 per cent, from 20 incidents in 2020, up to 49 so far in 2025.
Paul Milburn, Group Manager for Prevention and Protection at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: “While we have experienced more callouts to carbon monoxide-related incidents in Cumbria in recent years, false alarms are consistently high and the number of casualties has declined year on year since 2022/23.
“We do see some genuine CO exposure cases, but we also see incidents where alarms may be triggered by non-hazardous causes such as cooking fumes or a faulty or expired detector.”
Known as the ‘silent killer’, carbon monoxide is produced when fuel doesn’t burn properly, often due to faulty or poorly maintained appliances such as gas or oil boilers, cookers, fires, and wood burners.
It cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, making it impossible to detect without an alarm.
Around 50 people die in the UK every year as a result of CO poisoning, with thousands more needing hospital treatment.
Paul Milburn added: “Awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide has improved, with more detectors being installed around the county and increased urgency in reporting concerns early.
“We regularly share carbon monoxide guidance as part of local and national campaigns, such as Gas Safety Week, and complete more than 8,000 home fire safety visits each year which include information on carbon monoxide detection and dangers.”
Launched in 2015, Project SHOUT is a national campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
The campaign not only focuses on the life-threatening dangers of CO, but also the importance of regular maintenance of all fuel-burning appliances and how a CO alarm provides valuable extra protection.
Paul Milburn said: “Thankfully there are some small but effective steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
“Install a carbon monoxide alarm in a suitable location and replace the battery and detector according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
“Keep all ventilation clear of blockages; and make sure your fuel burning appliances are serviced regularly by a registered engineer.”
If you are experiencing headaches, nausea, dizziness or breathlessness, you may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. Early symptoms can easily be mistaken for flu or tiredness.
If your CO alarm sounds, or you experience any of these symptoms and suspect it could be carbon monoxide poisoning, you should get out of the house immediately and call 999.
For more information, visit: cumbriafire.gov.uk or visit https://projectshout.com.
