Since the beginning of October 2024, 22 people have been poisoned by carbon monoxide in the Gard department.
Among them, 16 had to be hospitalized, including 2 treated in a hyperbaric chamber, while two others unfortunately lost their lives.
Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, is one of the main causes of accidental death from poisoning in France. This toxic gas results from incomplete combustion, often linked to poor maintenance of heating appliances or inappropriate use of equipment such as kerosene stoves or generators.
Symptoms to watch out for
Signs of poisoning include headache, nausea, mental confusion and severe fatigue. These symptoms may appear gradually and go unnoticed, increasing the risk of prolonged exposure.
Essential precautions
To avoid these accidents, it is recommended to:
- Have combustion appliances checked and maintained at least once a year by a qualified professional.
- Have the chimneys swept every year.
- Ventilate the accommodation daily and never obstruct the ventilation grilles.
- Do not use appliances not designed for heating, such as braziers or barbecues, indoors.
- Follow the instructions for using auxiliary heaters and avoid their prolonged use.
What to do in case of poisoning?
As soon as the first symptoms appear:
- Ventilate the area immediately and leave the building.
- Do not use combustion appliances without professional advice.
- Call emergency services (15, 18 or 112) for rapid assistance.
For more information:
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