Carbon Monoxide poisoning is not a game

Last week we launched our national ‘Game Over’ campaign on behalf of the UK Gas Distribution Networks – Cadent, Northern Gas Networks, SGN and Wales & West Utilities. Carbon Monoxide (or CO) poisoning kills around 40 people every year in the UK and hospitalises many hundreds more. It’s a potentially lethal gas that’s produced when fossil fuels like natural gas, wood or oil don’t burn properly. It’s known as the ‘Silent Killer’ as you can’t see it, smell it, hear it or taste it.

The campaign specifically targets 16-24-year-olds, one of the least aware and most vulnerable demographics, as they are most likely to be moving into their own homes for the first time. It aims to help young people spot the signs of CO in the home, such as gas flames burning orangey yellow, boiler pilot lights blowing out regularly, extra condensation on windows and soot or yellow stains round appliances, as well as make them aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning, such as headaches, dizziness and drowsiness.

The campaign includes a series of short films and audio ads through social and digital media, such as Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, ITVX and Spotify. We have also recruited five TikTok influencers to create bespoke content, which will be distributed to 2M+ followers. Find out more and watch the films here.