Published: Less than 40 min ago
Updated: Less than 20 min ago
As electricity prices rise, more and more people are looking for alternative ways to heat their homes. According to the Poisons Information Centre, incorrect heating has led to a record number of carbon monoxide poisonings since last autumn.
According to the figures in the Poisons Information Centre’s upcoming annual report, 105 cases required hospital treatment last year – the highest number to date.
– This applies to several cases where you brought the grill indoors after cooking on it to heat up the home, says Peter Hultén, pharmacist at the Poison Information Centre.
The cause of the poisonings is that toxic gas is spread in the home via grills, gas stoves and incorrect wood burning. When burning indoors incorrectly and without adequate ventilation, the air in the room is gradually filled with carbon monoxide, which leads to oxygen deficiency.
– When we looked more closely at the statistics during a short period from September 1 to January, we have had many cases where the cause of the poisonings was due to incorrect use of grills, elements, gas and heating with wood in the home. In four serious cases, people have had to be treated in pressure chambers, says Peter Hultén.
Risk of death
– When there is a small smoldering fire, carbon monoxide is formed. If you then have poor ventilation, there is a risk of being poisoned, he continues.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning depend on the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and how long you have been in the room. Some common symptoms of mild carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue and palpitations.
– There is a risk that you will die, says Peter Hultén.
Ventilation important
To avoid poisoning, it is important to ensure that the ventilation is good, that the wood is dry and that you do not use outdoor products indoors, such as grills or heaters.
– If you now bring a charcoal grill into the room, there is an imminent risk of injury if you are in the room. If you are affected, you should contact the healthcare system. If you have a severe headache, you should go to hospital, says Hultén.
Facts
Five tips for safe indoor fires
Ensure good ventilation
If you are going to burn in a stove or fireplace, it is very important to have good ventilation. Check that the damper is open and that the chimney is working as it should.
Use only dry wood
The wood must be dry and suitable for burning. For example, treated wood, especially of an older variety or covered with old paint, can emit toxic fumes from chemicals when burned.
Never grill indoors
Never use the grill indoors as a heat source or for cooking. You should also avoid bringing in a charcoal grill that has recently been used, as this carries the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Avoid heaters for outdoor use
If you are going to use a gas stove as a heat source indoors, you must be sure that it is intended for indoor use and that it is in good working order.
Invest in a carbon monoxide alarm
An effective way to protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning is to use carbon monoxide alarms. Place the alarm near the place where you are burning and make sure it works properly. Replace batteries regularly and test the alarm at least once a month.
The poison information center provides advice to the public 24 hours a day on 010-456 67 00. If the situation is urgent, call 112.
Source: The Swedish Medicines Agency
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