It only takes a few minutes, you don't notice anything and it destroys lives. A problem linked to carbon monoxide, the most widespread poisoning in the country, has once again caused tragedy. This Sunday evening in Paris (16th century), an entire family was affected, we learned from consistent sources, following the malfunction of an electrical appliance.
The results are appalling: the mother died and the father was taken care of in Garches (Hauts-de-Seine) by emergency services even though his life was in danger. Four other people, including the couple's three children, had to be transported to Ambroise-Paré hospital, in Boulogne-Billancourt (Hauts-de-Seine). They were then accompanied by their uncle. Their state of health would not cause concern. It is not known who the sixth victim is.
The alert was given around 10:40 p.m. An entire family would suffer from discomfort in a home. They live in a building located not far from the Maison de la radio. Immediately, the firefighters activated their carbon monoxide protocol. Because there is little doubt, we are in peak season. When you turn your heating back on, a leak can be fatal. It is all the more so because it is difficult to detect.
Rescuers rush towards this seven-story building. They go up to the third floor and enter the apartment. For the mother, it is too late. The father is in cardiac arrest. Thanks to a massage, a doctor manages to restart the victim's heart. He was not out of the woods yet. This Monday afternoon, we did not know the evolution of his state of health.
Technicians from the central laboratory of the police headquarters went to the site to determine the causes of the tragedy. There is little doubt about that. According to a police source, the couple had just relighted an electrical appliance, apparently a barbecue, to warm up in their room. Information of which we have not had confirmation.
The Paris public prosecutor's office opened an investigation and entrusted it to the 16th century police station. “You have to be very careful during this period,” emphasizes a firefighter. Every year, around 100 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning. It starts with a simple headache related to lack of oxygen. Victims don't realize it's related to the gas because it is odorless. If you feel nauseous and you don't understand why, call for help. »
What about heating devices? “They obviously need to be maintained,” indicates the same source. It is generally when you turn them back on after a long period that you need to be particularly vigilant. »
