Woman (75) hospitalised after suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
ER24 says the elderly couple from Tzaneen reportedly had a petrol generator running in an enclosed space.
LIMPOPO – Portable generators are popular due to the amount of load-shedding and unplanned electricity outages. Generators are very convenient but residents are reminded that they can also pose serious risks, made evident after an elderly couple was treated for suspected carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning after leaving a generator running in an enclosed space for several hours.
According to ER24 multimedia producer Ross Campbell, paramedics attended to an incident of suspected CO poisoning in Aqua Park, Tzaneen on Monday (August 16).
Campbell says ER24 paramedics arrived on the scene at 15:00. “The couple reportedly had a petrol generator running in their garage for twelve hours and the elderly woman was said to have been confused and vomiting. Paramedics treated the patient for moderate injuries and transported her to Mediclinic Tzaneen for further care.”
He added that her partner of around the same age had suffered less serious injuries and was taken to hospital by a family member.
CO is a colourless and odourless gas that when inhaled, binds to the haemoglobin in the blood and reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, starving the body of oxygen and poisoning it.
“Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when there is to much carbon monoxide in the air. Because it is odourless, colourless and non-irritating, you won’t even notice when you are absorbing carbon monoxide.”
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Upset stomach
- Chest pain
The Centers for Disease Conrol and Prevention says CO is found in fumes produced any time you burn fuel in vehicles or trucks, small engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges or furnaces.
The CDC advises the public to ensure all fuel-burning engines and appliances are run in a well-ventilated area. “Never use a generator inside your home or garage or less than 6m from an open window, door or vent. If using in a garage, ensure that the door is open to let in fresh air.”
ER24 advises people who think they or someone they are with may have carbon monoxide poisoning, to get fresh air and call ER24 on 084 124.
Sources: Centers for Disease Conrol and Prevention and ER24
