Long stay in an enclosed car easily causes CO poisoning — Beware of the "invisible killer" in the air

Danger often creeps up on people unawares, and carbon monoxide poisoning is just such a hazard. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, earning it the name of the "invisible killer". Poisoning cases peak in cold autumn and winter, so extra precautions must be taken in daily life.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Prolonged Stay in an Enclosed CarMr. Huang, a truck driver who often takes long-haul trips, frequently felt drowsy, nauseous and dizzy after driving for long hours. One day, while having a meal during a delivery trip, he talked with an experienced driver and learned that all these symptoms were caused by carbon monoxide inside the car. When the weather turned cold, he would close the windows and turn on the air conditioner. As time passed, carbon monoxide accumulated steadily in the vehicle, triggering dizziness and nausea.

It is noted that a running car air conditioner produces toxic exhaust gas, among which carbon monoxide is the most common. Staying in an air-conditioned enclosed car for too long can lead to mild carbon monoxide poisoning for occupants. Some long-distance drivers smoke to stay alert; smoking in a sealed car also releases carbon monoxide and worsens poisoning symptoms.

Studies show that when the in-car carbon monoxide concentration ranges from 6 milligrams to 60 milligrams per cubic meter, prolonged exposure reduces drivers’ color sensitivity, spatial perception, night vision and hearing. This impairs their concentration and thinking ability, seriously endangering driving safety.

Beware of Risks When Bathing in a Sealed RoomTwo college students, Wu Xin and Liu Hua (both pseudonyms), rented an off-campus apartment together. One day, Wu Xin returned home to find Liu Hua collapsed on the floor next to the bathroom. He rushed Liu Hua to hospital for emergency treatment, and doctors later confirmed the case as carbon monoxide poisoning.

Special caution against carbon monoxide poisoning is needed when bathing with a gas water heater in a closed room in winter. Incomplete combustion of carbon or carbon-containing substances releases carbon monoxide. Once inhaled into the human body, it causes poisoning and oxygen deprivation suffocation, and can even be fatal in severe cases. Generally speaking, cerebral cortical nerve cells will suffer irreversible damage after 5 to 6 minutes of oxygen deprivation.

Therefore, before using a gas water heater, check for gas pipeline leaks and ensure the installation complies with safety standards. Keep the room well-ventilated and avoid overly long bathing time. In case of a gas leak, immediately shut off the gas valve and open doors and windows for ventilation.

Experts offer the following first aid guidelines:First, immediately open doors and windows to ventilate the area. Quickly move the poisoned person to a place with fresh air and good ventilation, loosen their clothing to keep their airway unobstructed, and keep them warm.

For unconscious patients, prevent inhalation of vomit into the lungs and send them to hospital for further treatment at once. Place unconscious victims in a lateral recumbent position. For those with stopped heartbeat, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately while arranging emergency medical transport.