Urgent Notice! Beware of This "Invisible Killer"
A hidden danger often creeps up on people unawares —
carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, earning it the nickname "invisible killer". Poisoning cases peak in cold autumn and winter, so extra precautions must be taken in daily life.
Case 1
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Staying in a Sealed Vehicle for Too Long
Mr. Huang, a truck driver who frequently takes long-haul trips, often felt drowsy, nauseous and dizzy after driving for long hours. One day during a meal break on a delivery run, he talked with an experienced fellow driver and learned these symptoms were caused by carbon monoxide inside the vehicle. As the weather turned cold, he would close the windows and turn on the air conditioner. Over time, carbon monoxide built up inside the car, triggering dizziness and nausea.
It is noted that vehicle air conditioners produce toxic exhaust fumes during operation, with carbon monoxide being the most common. Prolonged stay in an air-conditioned enclosed car can lead to mild carbon monoxide poisoning. Some long-distance drivers smoke to stay alert; smoking in a sealed car also releases carbon monoxide and worsens poisoning symptoms.
Studies show when the carbon monoxide concentration in a car ranges from 6mg to 60mg per cubic meter, prolonged exposure reduces drivers' color sensitivity, spatial perception, night vision and hearing. This impairs concentration and thinking ability, seriously endangering driving safety.
Case 2
Beware of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning When Bathing in a Sealed Room
Two 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, where doctors confirmed the cause was carbon monoxide poisoning.
Great caution is needed when using gas water heaters for bathing in enclosed rooms in winter. Incomplete combustion of carbon or carbon-containing substances releases carbon monoxide. Once inhaled, it causes poisoning and oxygen deprivation, which can be fatal in severe cases. Generally, irreversible damage occurs to cerebral cortical nerve cells after just 5 to 6 minutes of oxygen deprivation.
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 sessions. In case of gas leakage, immediately shut off the gas valve and open doors and windows for ventilation at once.
First Aid Measures for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Experts give the following first aid guidelines:
First, immediately open doors and windows to ventilate the area. Move the poisoned person quickly to a place with fresh air and good ventilation, loosen their clothing to ensure unobstructed breathing, and keep them warm.
For unconscious patients, prevent vomit from being inhaled into the lungs and send them to hospital for further treatment without delay. Place unconscious victims in a lateral recumbent position. If the patient’s heartbeat stops, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately while arranging emergency hospital transfer.
