On May 11. As reported by the District Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Bolesławiec:

Thanks to the proper operation of the carbon monoxide detector, tragedy was avoided
in one of the residential buildings in Bolesławiec. The device alerted the household members to the presence of the “silent killer,” giving them valuable time to evacuate and call the emergency services.

​After arriving at the scene, firefighters wearing respiratory protection equipment took measurements with multigas detectors. The devices confirmed the presence of carbon monoxide at a concentration posing a threat to health and life.

The crews’ actions consisted of ventilating the rooms and checking the heating appliances. Thanks to the quick response and the presence of the detector, none of the residents suffered injuries.

Firefighters:

​The heating season is a period with an increased number of interventions related to carbon monoxide. We remind you that carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and highly toxic gas, making it undetectable by human senses.

Why is it worth having a detector?

  • Early warning: The alarm is activated even at a low concentration, before the first symptoms of poisoning occur (headache, dizziness, nausea).
  • Protection during sleep: The detector monitors the home 24/7, including when household members are asleep and most vulnerable to the effects of the gas.
  • Low cost, high effectiveness: The cost of the device is small compared with the safety it provides for the entire family.

​SAFETY RULES – REMEMBER THIS

  • ​Chimney inspections: Regularly commission the cleaning and inspection of the unobstructed condition of chimney and ventilation ducts.
  • Efficient ventilation: Never cover ventilation grilles in kitchens and bathrooms. The supply of fresh air is essential for proper combustion.
  • Appliance servicing: Take care of the technical condition of gas heaters, central-heating boilers and fireplaces. Use only the services of authorized technicians.
  • Certified equipment: When buying a detector, make sure it has a certificate of compliance with the standard
    EN 50291, which guarantees that the device will detect the hazard and activate the alarm within the required time. It is worth looking for the CNBOP-PIB certificate and the CE mark.

What should you do if you hear the detector’s alarm signal?

  • Immediately open the windows and ventilate the room.
  • ​Evacuate all household members outside.
  • Call the Fire Service on the emergency number 112 or 998.