Government Centre for Security

Carbon monoxide (CO), commonly known as “the silent killer,” is produced by incomplete combustion of flammable materials such as gas and fuels, usually due to insufficient oxygen. This odorless, colorless, tasteless gas is dangerous because it is undetectable by human senses.

CO deprives the body of oxygen by binding with hemoglobin more effectively than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces oxygen transport and can lead to fatal hypoxia. Even inhaling air with just 0.16% CO concentration can be lethal in two hours.

The severity of symptoms depends on CO concentration and carboxyhemoglobin levels, and may include:

• Headaches,
• Difficulty concentrating,
• Dizziness,
• Weakness,
• Vomiting,
• Convulsions,
• Loss of consciousness,
• Coma,
• Irregular heartbeat,
• Slowed breathing.

CO poisoning risk increases during the fall and winter heating season due to faulty or improperly used heating devices, blocked chimneys, and poor ventilation.

• Perform technical checks, ensuring chimney tightness and regular cleaning.
• Regularly check for proper airflow, for example, using a piece of paper near a vent; if the ventilation is clear, the paper should adhere to the vent.
• Do not block ventilation grates.
• Use heating appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure they are functional.
• Ventilate rooms where combustion occurs frequently or leave windows slightly open.
• Install CO detectors in rooms where combustion occurs.
• If experiencing symptoms like difficulty breathing, headaches, or dizziness, ventilate immediately and seek medical help.

For more information on carbon monoxide risks, visit the State Fire Service’s website at http://www.straz.gov.pl/porady/czad. Emergency services like the Fire Department and Building Supervision monitor these threats.