This winter many Victorians are at home for longer periods due to the current circumstances of coronavirus (COVID-19) and may be running gas heaters for longer periods than usual. This could increase the risk of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning if domestic gas heaters are not regularly maintained, or operated without adequate ventilation (fresh air).
· Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that may cause symptoms including tiredness, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion or chest pain if inhaled. Symptoms can be mistaken for a flu-like illness. Very high levels of carbon monoxide can be fatal.

Energy Safe Victoria recommends that all gas heaters are serviced at least once every two years by a qualified gasfitter. Some models of open-flued gas space heaters are subject to a safety alert and must be rectified as well as serviced before use https://esv.vic.gov.au/safety-alerts/gas-open-flued-gas-heaters/ <https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=37165603&msgid=178605&act=0474&c=1491523&destination=https%3A%2F%2Fesv.vic.gov.au%2Fsafety-alerts%2Fgas-open-flued-gas-heaters%2F&cf=7236&v=5fffc823b7aefacf6807b0fa7c3220754ce095a5da696cd7142b3df323a9fb90>.
· Before using a gas heater, check that any permanent ventilation in your home is clear and ensure there is fresh air flow into the room. Under certain conditions such as inadequate ventilation or running bathroom exhaust fans or kitchen rangehoods at the same time as an open-flued space heater can result in negative pressure which draws carbon monoxide into the room instead of discharging outside through the flue or chimney.
· Gas heating should not be left running continuously overnight or for extended periods.
· Portable outdoor gas appliances should never be used indoors. Heat beads produce carbon monoxide and should never be used inside for cooking or heating purposes.