what you need to know to protect yourself from this deadly undetectable gas

With the arrival of low temperatures and following the power cuts caused by the Caetano storm in Normandy, the risk of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Here are five simple actions to limit the risks.

The snow, Ice and falling trees are not the only consequences of the Caetano storm. Another, more pernicious danger awaits residents who suffered a power cut at the end of November 2024: carbon monoxide poisoning.

This deadly, odorless, invisible and non-irritating gas is formed during the incomplete combustion of wood, coal, fuel oil, gas or even fuels. It can thus be released by combustion appliances that are poorly maintained or used in poor conditions: for example by leaving a non-electric auxiliary heater on continuously.

In Normandy, in 2023, there were 40 outbreaks of poisoning, affecting 78 people. Friday, November 22, an 85-year-old woman died of carbon monoxide poisoning in Ussy (Calvados).

Here are five simple actions to limit the risks, according to the Normandy Regional Health Agency (ARS).

Check and maintain at-risk devices before winter

It is recommended to bring in a qualified professional to check the installations before each winter season.

Among the devices at risk, we find for example boilers and water heaters, stoves and cookers, fireplaces and inserts, combustion heating devices (fixed or auxiliary), generators, or even machines with heat engine such as cars.

Ventilate the home for 10 minutes every day

Ventilating the living room, the living room, the bedrooms, even when it is cold, allows you to renew the air trapped in the home. Please note that you should not not obstruct air inlets and outlets such as ventilation grilles in kitchens, bathrooms and boiler rooms.

Follow the instructions for use

Auxiliary heaters should never be operated continuously as they are designed for brief, intermittent use. Never use appliances not intended for this purpose such as stoves, braziers or barbecues for heating.

With regard to combustion appliances, it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions, in particular with regard to uses prohibited in closed places.

Install a carbon monoxide detector

Carbon monoxide detectors help limit the risk of poisoning. It is then appropriate to check the voluntary marking NF EN 50291 (or NF 292) on detectors, the only standard guaranteeing reliable measurement of ambient air.

You can also require a certificate of conformity from the installer of any new gas appliance. In the event of a new installation of a generator, make sure that it is not placed in an enclosed place such as a house, cellar or garage. They must be installed outside buildings.

Spot the signs of poisoning: nausea, headache, vomiting

After being breathed, carbon monoxide takes the place of oxygen in the blood and therefore causes headaches, nausea, fatigue, discomfort or even muscle paralysis. Its action can be rapid: in the most serious cases, it can lead to coma or even death within a few minutes.

If you experience these symptomsit is necessary toImmediately open the premises by opening doors and windows. If you can, turn off combustion appliances. Call emergency services: SAMU (15), firefighters (18) or the single European emergency number (112) (or by SMS to 114 for hearing impaired people) and Evacuate premises and buildings.

Finally, the ARS reminds you not to re-enter the premises before having received advice from the fire brigade or a heating professional.