Couple taken ill after bird nest blocks chimney

A RETFORD couple are being treated for carbon monoxide poisoning after a Jackdaw nested in their chimney.

A friend of the couple, who wished to remain anonymous, wants to warn others of the risks and urge them to have carbon monoxide alarms fitted.

It comes just weeks after Notts Fire and Rescue service issued a warning to residents to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which they called a 'silent killer'.

The Retford residents had felt unwell but it was not until they brought a carbon monoxide alarm into their home that they were alerted to the problem, said the friend.

There had been no smell or any other signs but the alarm was triggered straight away.

"They called the gas board and they came round and found a Jackdaw had nested in the chimney," said the friend.

She said a carbon monoxide alarm would have alerted them to the risks of poisoning and prevented their illness.

"I've seen a few Jackdaws in the area and I know they like to nest in chimneys. I want to warn other people about the importance of having a carbon monoxide alarm and urge them to get one if they haven't already."

A spokesperson for the Notts Wildlife Trust, Erin Mcdaid said it is normal for Jackdaws to nest in chimneys.

"They are a popular spot for them and they can build quite sizeable nests there. They sometimes come back to the same next year after year. It's ok if the chimney isn't being used for ventilation."

A chimney cap or mesh cover can be used to prevent the birds nesting there, he said.

"Nests should be cleared in the autumn rather than spring. Call in the experts, such as a heating engineer, if you need advice or assistance."

Notts Fire and Rescue service issued a warning on carbon monoxide poisoning following an inquest into the death of Mansfield woman who died at home after being overcome by fumes from her coal-fired boiler.

Nottinghamshire Coroner Dr Nigel Chapman recorded a verdict of accidental death and warned of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning -not just from gas fires but also from coal-fired appliances.

Now officers from the fire service are urging people to make sure they are aware of the symptoms and that they do all they can to prevent another death or illnesses.

Station Manager Craig Dooley, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service's Fire Investigation team, said: "Carbon monoxide is known as a silent killer because you can't hear, see or smell it.

"But by learning to recognise the early warning signs, and being aware of the possible causes, you can greatly minimise the risk of falling victim to carbon monoxide poisoning - and might even save a life.

"Mild carbon monoxide poisoning can be treated, but the consequences can be fatal. We must do all we can to prevent more people falling victim to something that is so easy to detect and avoid."