During the same period, an increase in the number of carbon monoxide poisonings is also recorded. Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” because it is invisible and has no taste or smell.

Poisonings most often occur as a result of defects in, or improper use of, heating, electrical and gas appliances. To reduce the number of victims of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning in flats and single-family homes, uniformed officers remind residents of several rules that will help prevent unnecessary tragedies in the future—tragedies over which we, as residents, have a significant influence.

How not to let it kill you

It is important to make residents aware of the benefits of installing and properly using smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in flats or single-family homes. Property owners and building managers should also be reminded of their obligation to have chimney flues inspected and cleaned periodically and to check ventilation systems.

Let us remember that carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas. It cannot be detected by the human senses. You won’t hear, see or smell carbon monoxide!

Every year—and especially before the heating season begins!—mandatory periodic inspections and cleaning of chimney flues must be carried out, and the ventilation system must be checked.

The State Fire Service recommends installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

We remind you that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be properly maintained (including replacing the batteries). Firefighters are ready to help elderly people install a detector or replace its batteries.

It should also be remembered that a carbon monoxide detector does not replace a technical inspection of ventilation and chimney flues.

Where does carbon monoxide come from, and why is it so dangerous?

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is produced during the incomplete combustion of combustible materials. It has strong toxic properties and is lighter than air, which is why it accumulates mainly near the ceiling. The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning results from the fact that carbon monoxide is:

  • odourless
  • colourless
  • tasteless.

Carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from reaching the body—it takes its place in haemoglobin (red blood cells), causing death after prolonged exposure.

What is the main cause of carbon monoxide poisoning?

The main source of poisoning in residential buildings is the failure of chimney flues: ventilation and smoke flues. Their faulty operation may result from:

  • leaks
  • lack of maintenance, including cleaning
  • structural defects
  • failure to adapt the existing ventilation system to the airtightness standards of windows and doors, following the replacement of old windows and doors with new ones.

What can be done to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning?

  • clean, check the tightness of and carry out technical inspections of chimney flues regularly
  • use only appliances that are technically sound and use them in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
  • do not obstruct or cover heating appliances
  • do not seal or cover ventilation grilles.
  • if you replace windows with new ones, check that the ventilation system is working properly; new windows are usually much more airtight than those previously installed in the building and may worsen ventilation
  • do not ignore symptoms such as headaches and dizziness, shortness of breath, drowsiness, weakness or an increased heart rate; they may indicate that you are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Your health and life, as well as those of your loved ones, may depend on following the advice above. A little caution is all it takes.

More information is available on the website of the County Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Bolesławiec.