A Coolock primary school student has won a nationwide poster competition to raise awareness of carbon monoxide and the dangers that it can pose in homes.
The competition was run by Gas Networks Ireland, in partnership with Junior Achievement Ireland (JAI) and asked students to enter by creating a carbon monoxide safety poster.
Students who completed the Energize Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) educational programme were eligible to enter.
There were hundreds of entries from around the country but Sophie O’Driscoil from 5th class in Scoil Chaitríona Cailíní National School, Coolock came out on top, winning an iPad to use in her classroom.
Sophie’s poster featured a drawing of Tommy McAnairey, the well-known fictional animated canary balladeer who raises awareness of carbon monoxide safety on behalf of Gas Networks Ireland.
The poster included a quote from Tommy: "Get yourself a carbon monoxide alarm, or you might just wake up dead”.
Sophie’s teacher, Katie Doyle said she is "delighted" that Sophie won the award.
She said: "My class thoroughly enjoyed the Energize programme which brought science to life through fun and interactive sessions reflecting the curriculum.
"The programme enables pupils to understand career possibilities in STEM areas and encouraged them to continue with science in second-level education.
"We are delighted that Sophie has won this award. All our fifth-class pupils engaged in the poster competition and grasped the important safety messages related to carbon monoxide with wonderful creativity. Thanks to JAI, Gas Networks Ireland and all who support the programme.”
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