Fire Service warns Nigerians against Carbon Monoxide poisoning
Nigeria Fire Service
The Federal Fire Service has warned Nigerians about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, describing the gas as a “silent killer” responsible for several deaths and serious health complications globally each year.
In a statement issued on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services, DCF Paul Abraham, said carbon monoxide remained one of the most dangerous gases found in homes, workplaces and enclosed spaces because it has no colour, smell or taste, making it difficult to detect without proper equipment.
According to the agency, carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as petrol, diesel, gas, kerosene, charcoal, firewood and coal do not burn completely.
The Service identified generators, gas cookers, charcoal stoves, kerosene appliances, vehicle exhaust systems, industrial machines and faulty heating systems as common sources of the poisonous gas.
“When inhaled, carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream and prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs such as the brain, heart and lungs,” the statement said, warning that prolonged exposure could lead to unconsciousness and death.
The Fire Service explained that symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for malaria, fatigue or food poisoning, making early detection difficult.
It listed headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, chest pain, confusion, blurred vision and excessive sleepiness among the common symptoms, while severe exposure may result in organ failure, brain damage or death.
“One major warning sign is when several people in the same environment begin experiencing similar symptoms at the same time,” the statement added.
The agency blamed many carbon monoxide-related incidents on poor generator placement, inadequate ventilation, faulty appliances and running vehicle engines in enclosed spaces.
It warned Nigerians against operating generators indoors, in corridors, kitchens or close to windows and doors, stressing that fumes could quickly spread into living spaces.
“Generators should always be placed outside buildings and far away from windows, doors and ventilation openings,” the Service stated.
The Fire Service also advised residents to ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances, avoid sleeping near burning charcoal and regularly service generators, gas cookers and heating equipment.
It further encouraged homes, schools, hotels, offices and public buildings to install carbon monoxide detectors as an additional safety measure.
In cases of suspected exposure, the Service urged affected persons to move immediately to fresh air, open doors and windows where possible, switch off the suspected source and seek urgent medical attention.
The agency advised members of the public to contact the Federal Fire Service through its emergency line, 08032003557, or visit the nearest fire station in cases of carbon monoxide exposure, fire outbreaks or gas-related incidents.
