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Rescue operation in Vienna: women revived after CO poisoning!
Increased carbon monoxide warnings in Vienna: Fire brigade reports critical incidents due to summer heat and defective gas boilers.
Rescue operation in Vienna: women revived after CO poisoning!
The summer heat not only brings beautiful days, but also dangerous situations. The emergency services in Vienna had to be deployed on several days because significantly increased concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO) were measured in households. Two women in particular even required resuscitation measures after they became victims of acute CO poisoning, as My District reports.
The emergency services were on alert as the incidents increased. On June 26th, a woman in Döbling lost consciousness while showering, while in a similar incident on Landstrasse on June 29th, a lifeless person was also found in the bathroom. The fire department established a possible connection to high temperatures, the operation of gas boilers and mobile air conditioning units.
Danger potential of gas boilers
Gas boilers are often the source of CO poisoning, especially when outside temperatures are high and air-extracting devices are running at the same time. These devices can lead to exhaust gases not being discharged properly and accumulating in living spaces, as Hukendu shows. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often ambiguous and range from headaches to nausea to dizziness and lightheadedness. In the worst case, loss of consciousness and even death can occur.
Observations show that most carbon monoxide accidents occur while showering, especially when extractor hoods or exhaust fans are running. It is therefore particularly important to ventilate well in such situations and to have the thermal bath serviced regularly.
Precautions and warnings
The fire department urges caution. Regular maintenance of the gas boilers and an inspection of the chimney by experts are essential. Involving a chimney sweep when replacing or installing windows and doors can also help. The installation of a CO detector is recommended to provide timely warning of critical concentrations.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and tasteless gas – a silent and insidious danger. Initial signs of poisoning are often flu-like and can lead to confusion and serious health problems, as Aponet highlights. Long-term exposure can cause neurological deficits and, in severe cases, even lead to life-threatening conditions.
The residents of Vienna would do well to take a proactive stance. Ventilation and regular maintenance are a must to keep your home safe and prevent the summer heat from becoming a threat.