Detect life-threatening carbon monoxide poisoning and act fast

Carbon monoxide poisoning: Quick action can save lives

Every year hundreds of people in Germany die from carbon monoxide poisoning. According to experts, many deaths could be prevented by swift action. But the poisoning must first be recognized as such. Experts clarify symptoms of intoxication.

Deadly poisonings

"Heavy carbon monoxide poisoning at barbecue party in the winter garden", "adolescents in Bavaria died because of carbon monoxide poisoning", "Carbon monoxide poisoning: man dies because of barbecue use in the camper": in recent years, reports of life-threatening or fatal poisoning by carbon monoxide (CO) accumulated. Many people still do not realize how dangerous the chemical compound can be. Experts clarify how it comes to such poisoning and how to prevent it.

Again and again people are dying from carbon monoxide poisoning. Possible sources of danger include grills, gas water heaters and fireplaces. Experts explain how to protect yourself and how to save poisoned people. (Image: Louis / fotolia.com)

Odorless gas

Experts repeatedly warn against underestimating the dangers of carbon monoxide.

"Carbon monoxide is odorless and has almost the same density as air," explains the German Red Cross (DRK) on its website.

"In closed rooms, dangerous levels are quickly created. Since carbon monoxide binds up to 300 times more intensively with the red blood cells, the absorption of oxygen is blocked, "the experts say.

"Since poisoning is difficult to identify, CO is referred to as a" silent killer, "according to a report by the Poison Information Center North (GIZ North)..

Various carbon monoxide sources

"Carbon monoxide (chemical term: carbon monoxide) is produced by the combustion of carbonaceous materials under high temperature and low oxygen supply," explains GIZ North.

Common sources of danger are fireplaces whose ventilation system does not work well enough and faulty gas water heaters.

Carbon monoxide poisoning by wood pellets is also possible.

Barbecues and mushrooms can also be a risk.

And what is unknown to many: Even with hookah smoke there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which is why health experts demand carbon monoxide detectors for hookah bars.

CO detectors can also be useful in private households, especially if the apartments are heated with gas or if there are fireplaces in them.

Typical symptoms

Carbon monoxide can cause headaches even in low concentrations of 200 particles per million air molecules (ppm).

At a higher concentration, you may experience symptoms such as palpitations, hallucinations, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting or fainting.

Such symptoms should be thought of as possible CO poisoning and acted quickly.

Especially in confined spaces and higher concentrations, the gas can also cause deadly poisoning.

Rescued poisoned

The DRC explains what to do if you find people with CO poisoning:

Above all, it is important to pay attention to one's own safety. It is important to hold your breath. According to the experts, a handkerchief held in front of the mouth and nose does not protect, as it does not filter toxic gases. In fresh air, for example, at the window, inhale.

A second helper should take over the security (rope security).

Provide fresh air by opening doors and windows. This effectively effectively reduces the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air.

If possible, close the "gas source".

Rescue the poisoned person to the fresh air and alert the ambulance. (Ad)