THE tragic death from carbon monoxide poisoning of a Newcastle couple has prompted the local Lions Club into raising awareness of deadly gas.
Francie and Nan O’Reilly died in their mobile home at Bonny’s Caravan Park in Tullybrannigan on January 22 after being overcome by carbon monoxide from a gas fire.
After the deaths members of Newcastle Lions Club wanted to highlight the dangers of carbon monoxide and to try to do something to help prevent other senior citizens suffering.
After consulting with the family of Nan and Francie O’Reilly, the Lions set themselves a target of providing 100 carbon monoxide alarms to be given free of charge to any senior citizen who requires one.
In showing their support for the idea with a very generous donation from the family members of Nan and Francie O’Reilly and also donations from others sponsors, the Lions purchased 50 alarms. If further donations are received, more alarms will be purchased.
“Carbon monoxide fumes can be given off if people are using poorly maintained appliances that burn gas or other fossil fuels, or if they burn charcoal in an enclosed space, or use gas appliances that produce a yellow flame and deposit soot on the walls,” said a spokesman for the Lions.
“People think that because they live in rented accommodation, the landlord has a duty to provide a carbon monoxide alarm. After checking with the Environmental Health Department of Down District Council, they confirmed that the landlord has no responsibility,” he added.
On Saturday, March 28, starting at 10 am, in the foyer of the Newcastle Centre, the Lions will distribute the carbon monoxide alarms to senior citizens only. People are asked to produce evidence that they are 65 or over, and they will receive free of charge a working battery operated alarm.
Because this is a free gift, Newcastle Lions cannot maintain the alarm or renew the batteries when required. For further information about Newcastle Lions visit their website www.lionsclubnewcastlecodown.com