With the cold snap, Gironde firefighters are warning against this colorless and deadly gas

The cold has set in in Gironde since the start of the week. And with his return, the department’s firefighters intervened to numerous poisonings carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas.

This Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS) therefore decided to warn the Girondins. Because carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.

Use heating appliances classic, or additional, carries risks. It is when they are not maintained enough and the accommodation is not well ventilated that poisoning can occur.

What are the signs?

Carbon monoxide results from incomplete combustion. Any type of combustible can be the cause of the presence of carbon monoxide: wood, butane, coal, gasoline, fuel oil, natural gas, oil or even propane.

The gas is “colorless, odorless and tasteless”, specify the firefighters, making it particularly difficult to detect.

The first signs of poisoning are as follows: “drowsiness, nausea or vomiting, headache and loss of consciousness. » You must then ventilate the room, leave the premises and call emergency services (18 for the fire brigade or 112, the European emergency number).

Prevent risks

In order to prevent any risk of poisoning, firefighters also reminded people of good habits to follow. In particular, it is necessary check heaters before their return to service or after their purchase.

But also ensure ventilation of the premises and do not use unplanned devices for heating (like a stove, or a brazier, etc.). Finally, never place generators inside buildings.

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