The Broads Authority has warned city boaters of a silent killer in the water this winter. 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an issue that water users should be aware of all year round. 

However because boat engines are run for longer during the winter months to power heating and other appliances, the issue is even more prevalent.  

The problem arises because carbon monoxide has no smell or taste, which is what makes it so deadly and hard to detect.  

Lucy Burchnall, Broads Authority head of ranger services, said: “Whether you are living aboard your boat or just taking it out for a day cruise over the winter period, we really urge you to familiarise yourself with the symptoms of CO poisoning and the steps you can take to keep yourself safe, including ventilation and installing a working alarm.  

“It might just save your life." 

The Royal Yachting Association has issued some advice on recognising the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

It added: "When CO enters the body, it replaces the oxygen in the bloodstream and prevents the blood from bringing oxygen to the heart, brain, body tissues, and organs.

"The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to flu or food poisoning and include headaches, tiredness, nausea and dizziness. 

"The greater the amount of CO the more severe the symptoms will get leading to weakness, loss of balance and memory.

"Extreme levels may well cause collapse, unconsciousness and death."

The Canal and River Trust and the Environment Agency runs the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS), which has issued advice on how to keep boats safe from a CO incident. 

This includes installing an alarm and testing it regularly. 

It also advises boat owners to install fuel-burning appliances properly and not allow fumes to make it into the cabin.

The Broads Authority added is recommended that each boat has at least one working carbon monoxide alarm aboard.  

If anyone aboard experiences a sudden onset headache and feels lethargic get into fresh air immediately and call 999 if symptoms do not subside.