Fire Service raises alarm over ‘silent killer’ gas

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The Federal Fire Service has alerted 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 by the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services, DCF Paul Abraham, the Service said carbon monoxide remained one of the most dangerous gases found in homes, workplaces, and enclosed environments because it has “no colour, no smell, and no taste,” making it difficult to detect without proper equipment.

“When inhaled, carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream and prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs,” the statement noted, 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 lists headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, chest pain, confusion, blurred vision, and excessive sleepiness among common symptoms, while severe exposure may result in organ failure, brain damage, or death.

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 spread rapidly 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 the event 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.