It crept in from the boiler and out into the hall”
A pupil at Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Allta has scooped the top prize in a national safety competition.
Lewis Moger, 11, from Ystrad Mynach, beat thousands of entrants from across the UK to win the Energy Networks Association’s ‘Get Creative, Be Safe’ competition.
The competition invited school-age children to produce something creative to warn of the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Participants were invited to produce an eye-catching poster, poem or other medium. The final product had to be both informative and accurate, while also raising awareness of the dangers of CO poisoning and how to avoid them.
Lewis won first place with a poem and was presented with his trophy at an event in the House of Commons, where he also collected a £450 cash prize for himself and £900 for his school.
Mr Steffan Jones, Teacher at Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Allta, said: “As a class we enjoyed taking part in the competition.
“Lewis’ entry was fantastic, and we are all very proud of him in winning such an accolade. Going to the House of Commons was a great experience and it was wonderful to celebrate Lewis and all the other regional winners.”
CO is known as the silent killer due to the fact you cant see, smell or taste it. CO poisoning is responsible for around 40 deaths and 200 hospitalisations each year.
Symptoms of CO poisoning are often confused with flu, especially in winter, as they include severe headaches, a sore throat, dizziness, coughing, feeling sick, and a general lack of energy.
Wales & West Utilities Head of Emergency Service, Clive Book, said: “Lewis has done a grand job with his entry to the competition and should feel incredibly proud.
“The competition was a huge success this year and we hope that everyone taking part has been able to help spread the vital gas safety messages to their friends and loved ones.”