Millions of Aussies at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

A mother who lost her two children to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is leading calls for homeowners to check their appliances with winter just around the corner.

Vanessa Robinson’s sons, Chase and Tyler, died from CO poisoning caused by an un-serviced gas heater in their Mooroopna rental property in 2010.

In wake of the tragedy, Ms Robinson set up a charity in their memory to raise awareness of the “silent killer”.

“We just want to help people stay safe and sound within their homes,” she told 9NEWS.

A study of Australian homes commissioned by Nest found Victorians were most at risk of CO poisoning, with almost half of homeowners unaware what carbon monoxide is.

“There’s no or very little knowledge about carbon monoxide alarms that you can purchase and place inside your home to give you early warning of carbon monoxide levels,” she said.

CO is difficult to detect, but some symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, nausea and fatigue.

“It can just present like a flu kind of illness, or a gastro kind of illness,” Doctor Barbara Robertson said.

“It happens very quietly, and very insidiously. It can result in very nasty outcomes.”

With cool weather setting in ahead of winter, experts have said it's important homeowners check the safety of gas and fuel burning appliances and ensure they're serviced at least once every two years.

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