Rise in CO poisonings - Belgian Red Cross-Flanders highlights lifesaving first aid
As winter continues to grip Flanders, the number of carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings is on the rise. Dozens of people were affected in January alone, including recent cases in Laken, Deurne and Merksem. Belgian Red Cross-Flanders is therefore making an urgent appeal today, "Be prepared for CO poisoning. Knowing the proper first-aid steps can save lives."
What is CO poisoning?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and life-threatening gas produced by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as gas, oil or wood. A malfunctioning heating system or inadequate ventilation can lead to dangerous concentrations of CO. CO binds more strongly to hemoglobin than oxygen, preventing oxygen transport in the body. This leads to oxygen deprivation and can have fatal consequences. Every year, hundreds of people become trapped by CO poisoning and several die.
How do you recognize CO poisoning?
The most common symptoms are headache, nausea and dizziness. With continued exposure, drowsiness, confusion and loss of consciousness may also occur. Severe CO poisoning can lead to coma and heart problems. Because these symptoms often go unnoticed, quick action is crucial.
How do you prevent CO poisoning?
Use only safe and approved heating appliances. Ensure adequate ventilation in the home and have appliances installed and maintained by professionals. Connect heating appliances with a flame (such as gas or oil stoves) to a properly functioning chimney and regularly check the color of the flame (blue = safe, yellow-orange = danger). Never run an engine in an enclosed space, such as a garage, and install a CO detector to receive timely warning of elevated concentrations.
First aid for CO poisoning
Begin to feel dizzy or get a headache. Open a window immediately. If you find someone unconscious in a closed room, realize that it may be CO poisoning and do not simply enter the room but follow these steps:
- Protect yourself: Never just enter the room without first ventilating.
- Notify emergency services via 112: Report that you suspect CO poisoning.
- Ventilate the room: Open windows and doors from the outside.
- Turn off appliances: Turn off possible CO sources.
- Evacuate the victim: Take the victim outside or to a well-ventilated area.
- Check the victim's breathing and start CPR immediately if he or she is not breathing, including mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If the victim is breathing place the victim in the stable side position.
Facts about CO poisoning in Belgium
Carbon monoxide is the most deadly form of poisoning in Belgium. Every year there are hundreds of CO victims, several of whom die. Half of the poisonings happen in the bathroom. CO poisonings occur mostly between November and April.
For more life-saving first aid tips, download the free Red Cross First Aid app or find all the tips in the "Help! First Aid for Everyone" handbook.