CO: 120 victims per year
The heating season has begun, and with it comes an increased risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This gas is invisible, odourless and deadly. In Brussels, more than 120 cases are recorded each year, resulting in hospitalisations and sometimes deaths.
That is why the Opens in new windowBrussels Fire Brigade, Opens in new windowSibelga, the Opens in new windowPoison Control Centre and Opens in new windowBrussels Environment are once again joining forces in a campaign to inform and protect residents.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of CO poisoning are:
- headaches,
- nausea,
- dizziness or loss of consciousness.
If in doubt, call immediately Opens in new window112.
How can you protect yourself?
Ensure good ventilation: always leave the vents open, even in winter.
Have your appliances serviced: annually for oil, every two years for gas, only by a certified technician.
Check the chimney: good draught is essential.
Install a CO detector: it will alert you in time.
Home visit
The Brussels Fire Brigade's fire safety at home service offers free home visits. During these visits, you will receive practical advice on how to avoid CO-related risks.
You will also be given a free CO detector.
Interested? Contact the fire safety at home service via the button below.
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