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Take care with carbon monoxide when camping

Carbon monoxide is something that kills and many people are unaware of this risk. Carbon monoxide has become known as the silent killer because people will die from overexposure without there being any indication that they are dying from it. Going on a camping holiday is a very popular option for cost conscious holidaymakers and unfortunately this is an activity that has a high risk associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Campers are heated by devices which can potentially produce carbon monoxide and people need to be very aware of the risk. Of course, this risk is only present for people who are using fuel powered equipment and if used incorrectly this can let off carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is potentially fatal but can also cause lesser harm to the body.

How to Avoid or Reduce the Risks

• Camping usually involves a tent, camper or caravan. When combustibles are used within these enclosed quarters without proper ventilation people in close proximity are at high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

• Lanterns, space heaters, portable grills, gas burning appliances, and other fuel-powered equipment should only be lit and burnt outside

• Ensure tents, campers, caravans and any other enclosed areas are adequately ventilated

• When using gas burning units such as the portable stove in your caravan, or gas lanterns in your tent, keep the door or windows open

• Always cook at least 2-3 metres away from your tent

• Never use or bring a barbecue into a tent. Carbon monoxide will still be released from the hot coals

• When camping at high altitudes, the effects of carbon monoxide are heightened and consequently, more care is required. Also, when alcohol or drugs are ingested the negative effects of CO inhalation are intensified

• Camping in cold weather is especially dangerous for carbon monoxide poisoning because there is a frequent need for heating units and a strong tendency to stay inside due to the weather. Choosing other alternatives like electrical or battery-operated models is highly recommended

Figures from the Department for Health suggest that 4,000 people a year are poisoned by carbon monoxide, with 200 being admitted to hospital. Last year, 50 people died from the effects of CO poisoning – a dramatic increase from four deaths the previous year2 – and the cost to the NHS is estimated at £178 million a year3.

Badly-fitted appliances, which use gas or other household fuels such as coal and wood, along with faulty boilers, flues or poorly ventilated ovens are often to blame. Worryingly, CO can also enter a property from adjoining households.

But the workplace can also pose a hazard and the spate of camping incidents in recent years shows the potentially fatal risk of CO poisoning from taking barbecues into tents.

Nick Rutter, managing director of Sprue Safety Products, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of CO alarms, said: “Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous, potentially fatal gas produced from fuel-powered camping equipment – including barbecues. With no colour, taste or smell, it is totally invisible to the human senses. Because the gas is so difficult to detect and the symptoms (such as headaches) so common to other complaints, many people can be poisoned without knowing it. The actual number of people affected is thought to be much higher.

“Carbon monoxide is potentially fatal, but exposure to low levels of the gas over just a few hours can be just as lethal as high levels over a short amount of time, causing lasting damage to your health,” added Nick.

“With such serious potential consequences, CO safety should be given the same attention as fire safety and we strongly support the call from the All Party Parliamentary Gas Safety Group for the co-operation of Government, industry, and the health sector to take simple measures which will help raise awareness, improve detection and develop better regulation which will ultimately save lives.

“We are also supporting the charity, CO Angels’ ’10 by 20’ campaign, in a bid to install CO alarms in 10 million homes across the UK by 2020.”

Warning Signs:

The early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to ‘flu’. They can include:

• nausea

• dizziness

• tiredness

• headaches

• stomach pains

• chest pains

If you experience these symptoms, but feel better when you are outside or away from the appliance, you could be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.

More severe symptoms are respiratory problems and brain damage leading potentially to death.

If you are concerned about the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning whilst on holiday in the UK or abroad, you can take a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm with you.

When you buy a carbon monoxide alarm, make sure it meets current British and European safety standards. Look for alarms marked with the name of the European Standard ‘BSEN 50291:2001′ and with the ‘CE’ mark, which should be found on the packaging.

For more information on the CO alarms available from Sprue Safety Products, visit: www.fireangel.co.uk.

Sprue Safety Products supports the CO Angels’ ’10 by 20’ campaign, in a bid to install CO alarms in 10 million homes across the UK by 2020. For more information on how you can back the bid, please visit www.co-angels.co.uk

 

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Ouimet Canyon is a must see when visiting Ontario

About 70 kilometres outside of Ontario in Canada, and located just off the trans-Canadian Highway is Ouimet Canyon. This is an incredible site and you will find several Arctic plants here such as lichen and moss. Larger plants include incredible Alpine Woods as well as many different types of fern.

There is an incredible rock formation in this park which is called Omett. This rock formation gets its name from the ancient legend that a giant placed it there after digging a new lake. The story also says that this giant, whose name was Omett was moving a mountain when the peak of it broke off.

There is another Canyon in the area which can be found if you head back towards the trans-Canadian Highway. This Canyon has a name that doesn’t have so much history attached to it and it is simply called Eagle Canyon. One of the best ways to see this Canyon is to take the tram which runs from the top of the Canyon all the way across it. This tram does charge a small admission fee, so make sure you include this in your budget planning.

There is an incredible suspension bridge which runs for over 300 feet crossing the Canyon and it takes you 125 feet above the floor of the Canyon. Even more remarkable than this is the next suspension bridge you come to which spans 600 feet and is the longest suspension bridge found in Canada.

There are several famous lakes located next to this Canyon including Lake Superior to the North. This is a lake that is fed by mountainous springs and it is possible to take the tram all the way to the floor of the Canyon to explore this lake. Taking a walk around the lake is a wonderful, and relaxing experience.

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There are many cities in Italy that are well worth a visit

If you’re planning on going on holiday to Italy then it would be a very good idea to visit Rome. However, there are also many other popular cities in Italy which are worth visiting and you shouldn’t think that Rome is the only city that is worth seeing.

Pisa is a city that is located in the Tuscan region of Italy and it is probably most famous for being the location of the leaning Tower of Pisa. This however is not the only attraction in the city and there are plenty of cultural sites to enjoy here.

There is also a cathedral which is nearly 1000 years old and it is a wonderful example of architecture from this period. The cathedral was so respected when it was built that when the architect died he was buried within its walls.

Unfortunately, a great deal of damage was done to the artwork in the building which was initially placed in the cathedral during a fire in the 16th century. Fortunately since that time various artists have been commissioned in order to redecorate the cathedral in line with its original style. The contribution of these artists over time has meant that the cathedral is once again the spectacular location it was before the fire.

The Leaning Tower and this cathedral are not the only reasons you should come to the city and there are many pieces of famous art in the city which you can come to see. You should be aware though that there is a small charge for visiting the cathedral so if you are travelling on a budget make sure to include this in your planning as it is well worth seeing. The tomb which was designed for Emperor Henry VII is one of the most remarkable constructions within the cathedral.

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Bulgaria offers great holidays in Europe

Most people dream of European holidays, but when it comes down to actually booking a destination are not sure where to start. Europe boosts some of the best travel destinations on the earth, and to help you pick one here are a few of the best places to visit on your next holiday.

Topping off the list is Plovdiv, Bulgaria which is actually one of the oldest cities that is still standing in Europe. Every corner of the city brings new architectural sights with it and plenty of Roman relics of the past. While some may think that Rome is the oldest city in Europe, Plovdiv is really the best place to head to see Roman theatres and more. Plus, the city offers plenty in the way of shopping, bars, and restaurants.

Another great holiday destination is Pompeii, Naples which is known for the historical volcano that erupted and buried the city. Today most of the city has been dug out from under the ash and the sight now is quite awe inspiring as the ash actually helped capture the city in its glory days almost perfectly preserved.

Nearby is the city of Venice, Italy which is easily one of the most romantic spots in all of Europe. The fact that gondolas are the main mode of transportation in the city only tops off just how cool Venice is. You will also find some great bars and restaurants as well as fine Italian food that will leave you breathless after dining.

Finally, for some great shopping with a pinch of history travel towards Bremen, Germany where you will find some great shopping experiences via the local markets and the shopping areas near the historic St. Peters cathedral. The medieval roads are also fun to stroll along and overall the city is very pedestrian friendly making it easy for tourists to get around.

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A visit to the China Silk Road is a trip back in time

The Silk Road was once a famous trade route that connected the Xian silk merchants with the many areas of the western world. Exploration along the route started as early as 200BC when some merchants headed off towards Constantinople while others like Marco Polo headed into the East to see what they could find.

Today the China Silk Road is filled with mementos of this time including cultural relics, historical sites, colourful folklore, and plenty of scenic sites making it a wonderful route to explore if you are looking for an alternative holiday idea.

Some of the historical sites and relics that you will see along the route include the Mogao Grottoes of Dun Huang where some of the best Buddhist arts are thought to be housed, the Terracotta Warriors in Xian which is a vast archaeological hotspot with carriages, horses, and troops set up in battle formation, and the Karez Well of Turpan which is an underground irrigation system that dates back thousands of years ago.

Of course, the sights alone are not what make the trail so interesting, because it is the chance to explore very unique cultures that makes it appeal to most travellers. For instance, if you decide to explore the Silk Road between Urumqi and Kashgar then you will see how the religion and culture slowly transforms from Buddhism to Islam.

In Urgur people are known for being hospitable and it is possible that the locals will actually invite you into their home to eat a meal. You will also see plenty of singing and dancing along the way which is fun to watch and observe as their way of life is very colourful compared to the Western way of life that most people are used to.

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A visit to Macau is a must if travelling east

If you come to Macau there are going to be plenty of activities for you to enjoy. As well as having a fantastic nightlife, the city has a deep culture which tourists should enjoy. There are also numerous other attractions and some great food for people to enjoy here.

One of the main reasons people choose to visit this destination is because of the fantastic weather. There is a variation in temperature all year round and because of this the best time of year is to visit during the autumn, which runs from October to December.

During the year there are many different international festivities which draw people from all over the world. The International Fireworks Festival is particularly well known and is a remarkable display that lights up the night sky. The Macau International Music Festival is another popular attraction which sees music fans come from all over the world.

70,000 visitors every year attend the Macau Grand Prix which is probably the sporting highlight of the year. This is a remarkable race which is watched by around 250 million people all over the world by satellite.

Grand Prix racing is not the only sport that occurs here and the city is also known for hosting a Golf Open. This takes place every other year and makes the city a very popular destination for people who enjoy the sport.

Just 60 kilometres from Macau is Hong Kong, so if you are visiting this part of China, it can be worth taking the short trip to the most affluent part of the country. Hong Kong is not just a fantastic shopping destination but it is also a great destination for sightseeing. Macau has accommodation that will suit all budgets, from budget lodgings to luxury hotels and guesthouses.

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Old Spain is very much in evidence in historic Bilbao

Bilbao is a city that has history dating back to the 12th century and today it has become a city that is known for its culture as well as being a financial centre. It is also an important seaport location due to its location on the Estuary of Bilbao. In the centre of the city you will find the Old City, this is an area of great historical significance and it has been protected by the city by being declared a historical monument.

Despite this protection, there are a great deal of developments in the centre including many restaurants and bars which attract both locals and tourists alike. The oldest structure in the city is the Gothic San Diego Cathedral and it is a wonderful example of the neoclassical style of architecture.

The city has a bit of a reputation as being a cultural hub and this is mostly due to the number of galleries and museums in the city. It is also the home of the Guggenheim Museum, which is a world-famous location. Here you will find a fantastic permanent selection of art as well as several consistently changing temporary exhibitions.

If you are more interested in learning about the history of Spanish art, then you should visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. This offers a fascinating insight into the Basque people as well as a general history of Spain.

For those who are interested in music, especially classical music and opera, the city has a great deal of options. As well as having its own Symphony Orchestra, there are many opera performances throughout the summer. Much of the city bases its nightlife around live music and for those who enjoy club or alternative music, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

There is a nine-day festival that takes place in August in the city known as Semana Grande, or ‘big week.’ At this time of year over 10,000 people come to the city, many of them from the rest of Spain, but also from international locations. Here you will find many fascinating activities taking place, such as bullfighting.

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South Carolina offers fun and relaxing holidays

If you are looking for a relaxing and fun destination to head to then you should consider visiting South Carolina. It is also a wonderful location for those who are into adventure and enjoy exploring. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here and the beaches are well known throughout the country.

For those who are more interested in indoor activities, there are plenty of museums in the state and also several theme parks. South Carolina is really a destination that is blessed with so many tourist attractions that there is no real reason why you shouldn’t consider taking a holiday here.

The best beach in South Carolina is known as Myrtle Beach. This beach is not just popular for its fantastic atmosphere, but it is also known for the wonderful attractions nearby. If you are interested in golf, you will find many of the nearby courses an enjoyable challenge.

Nearby to the beach there is also an amusement park and aquarium, which will fascinate adults and children alike. The adventure park here has over 30 exciting rides which will fascinate children. There is even a special waterpark here dedicated to children, so adults will be able to get some peace and quiet while children play.

The area is not just full of tourist attractions however, and there are still some great cultural activities. South Carolina is a state with a great deal of history and it would definitely be worth exploring some of this while you are here.

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The Ideal Holiday Lodge for Families looking for Staycations

Wessex Park and Leisure Homes have made the idea of a ‘staycation’ far more appealing with the introduction of one of the most luxurious holiday lodges yet.

Originally designed to be sited in Warren Park on the Lyn peninsula in Abersoch, Wales, the Seafronter’s popularity has driven Wessex to add the holiday lodge to their standard range. This now means there is far more flexibility in areas to site it, whether you wish to be overlooking sea views or would prefer a woodland setting.

Many families are now becoming more likely to look for ‘staycations’ – where holidaymakers choose to stay in the UK rather than spending a huge amount of money going abroad. There are a number of benefits associated with this, not least that the whole family can attend without a huge expenditure. Wessex Park homes is providing the perfect solution for staycations, meaning you receive the luxury of a holiday without all the hassle of going abroad.

Wessex SeafronterOne of the main benefits to owning a luxury holiday lodge would be that you are able to enjoy the little luxuries you are used to at home whilst on holiday – and with the Wessex Seafronter, many more luxuries. The Seafronter could be described as a cross between a top of the range beach hut, with the interior of a luxury penthouse apartment, which is why it has seen such popularity.

The lodge features solid oak wood flooring, a double sized hydra pool, king sized master bed, Bang & Olufsen lounge TV as well as kitchen appliances such as a wine cooler and coffee maker – all as standard. There is also remote controlled underfloor heating which can be controlled via a smart phone app, so you can turn it on and ensure your lodge is warm on arrival.

This lodge really is the dream holiday home and with 3 bedrooms, there is plenty of space for friends and family.

The Seafronter has only recently been added to Wessex Park Homes standard range, but is already becoming one of the most popular lodges. Lodges for sale in the standard range are able to be sited at a range of locations and selected parks across the UK. Wessex Park Homes are well-known for their luxury designs and high quality specification in holiday lodges, but the Seafronter exceeds all expectations.

Wessex Park Homes are a leading park home and holiday lodge manufacturer and make some of the most luxurious holiday lodges for sale, found in some of the UK’s most wonderful places. They have over 50 years’ experience and a huge number of satisfied customers. To find out more about the Wessex Seafronter, or to organise a viewing, contact 01258 860455 or visit the website at wessexparkhomes.co.uk.

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