The use of gas in poorly ventila-ted areas within the home heightens the risk of carbon-monoxide poisoning, the National Fire Administration said yesterday.
"Many households have been shutting all of their windows over the Lunar New Year because of the cold front from the north. The resulting poor ventilation has led to incomplete combustion of gas, releasing carbon monoxide," administration director general Huang Chi-ming (
According to figures released yesterday, a total of 29 cases of carbon-monoxide poisoning were reported over the Lunar New Year, including three deaths and 63 injuries. This was an increase on last year's figure of only eight cases, which included one death and 13 injuries.
The agency yesterday reminded the public of precautions that could be taken against poisoning.
It said that carbon monoxide released by incomplete combustion is colorless, odorless and extremely toxic. To prevent carbon monoxide from harming residents, water boilers should be installed in well-ventilated areas. In the case of balconies with metal bars attached, residents should leave windows open while gas is being used so that ventilation can be facilitated.
The agency also said that in the event of carbon-monoxide poisoning, windows should be opened immediately to improve ventilation and the affected person should be removed from the spot and be given immediate medical attention.
The agency also said it hoped legislation could be amended so that gas-release sensors would be compulsory in all homes and that the credentials of technicians who work with gas-related equipment would be regulated.
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