Nowadays, we are regularly in contact with combustion devices. Indoor air quality is a major concern, and carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most well-known pollutants. Identifying the existence of a source of emission of this molecule using a carbon monoxide (CO) detector is useful for preserving health. Carbon monoxide is a highly volatile gas: that is why it is important to find out about it to avoid all kinds of poisoning that can be harmful to health. What is it? What are the health risks associated with the presence of CO? How can you limit the presence of CO for your health? We explain everything!
Published on 21 January 2025
Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is a highly toxic gas and can be fatal in high doses. Odourless and invisible, it is generated by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. The incomplete combustion of fuels such as wood, coal or gas produces this dangerous gas. CO spreads very quickly in the air. It enters the lungs and reduces the level of oxygen reaching the vital organs.
Be careful not to confuse it with CO2. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a non-toxic gas. It plays a vital role in the respiration of living beings and in the life processes of plants.
In France, carbon monoxide poisoning affects nearly 3,000 people a year. This dangerous gas is potentially lethal, which is why it is important to identify the source of its emission. In winter, when the cold is more intense, the risks associated with carbon monoxide poisoning increase. CO can come from:
In winter, it is crucial to take extra precautions to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in cold environments.
Here are some examples of situations where carbon monoxide can be emitted:
Unmaintained or defective appliances
Appliances or vehicles used in an enclosed space
Inappropriate use of appliances
In winter, these appliances are used a lot in many places. That is why regular maintenance is strongly recommended to improve the safety of homes. It is important to have these appliances checked by qualified professionals in different places. Checking these devices will significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in several living areas.
In its normal state, haemoglobin, which makes up red blood cells, is charged with oxygen. In the event of poisoning, the oxygen attached to the haemoglobin (which then becomes oxyhaemoglobin) is replaced by CO, which transforms the (oxy)haemoglobin into carboxyhaemoglobin. The lack of oxygen then causes a general dysfunction of the cells.
This asphyxiating gas spreads rapidly in the air and can be fatal within an hour!
In pregnant women, carbon monoxide can cross the placenta. CO makes the foetus unsafe and can put it in serious danger. It can cause serious neurological damage or even kill the foetus.
The effects of carbon monoxide vary according to:
With low exposure, the victim may experience headaches, nausea or a little fatigue. This can lead to mild carbon monoxide poisoning. With medium exposure, the headache symptoms are persistent. Sensations of dizziness, lightheadedness and blurred vision appear. The person will feel drowsy and their heart rate will increase, which can lead to more severe poisoning. In the case of high exposure, the individual will feel very weak. They may faint or even go into convulsions. If no action is taken, the victim may fall into a coma or even die from severe carbon monoxide poisoning.
Treatment will depend on the level of poisoning. For mild cases, treatment with fresh air and oxygen may be sufficient. However, for more serious cases, intensive medical treatment will be necessary, including the administration of pressurised oxygen. Medical follow-up is essential to ensure that the treatment is effective and that the person does not suffer any after-effects.
Poisoning can affect several people in the same household. If you have a carbon monoxide detector, it will sound if CO is present. At the first signs of weakness due to poisoning, you must act quickly.
Take the right steps:
1 - Cut off the power supply to the CO emitting device
2 - Evacuate the premises
3 - Call the emergency services by dialling 18, 15 or 112 (114 for the hearing impaired)
Before resuming a safety check, do not enter your home without being invited to do so by the emergency services. A quick assessment of the situation is essential to ensure everyone's safety. It is strongly recommended that you call in a professional to carry out a full assessment and ensure that no other sources of danger remain. A professional will also be able to make sure that all appliances are in good working order and do not pose any risk to the health and safety of the occupants.
Throughout the year, it is important to maintain the appliances in your home to avoid CO poisoning. To do this, certain rules must be followed:
Carbon monoxide is dangerous and toxic. To prevent this risk, it is strongly recommended that a home or room be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector (DAACO). This will emit an audible signal to warn occupants of the presence of CO in the room. Regular maintenance of the detector is also essential to ensure its effectiveness.
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