Every winter is a high-risk period for carbon monoxide poisoning. Some families still use coal or firewood for heating, making it essential to stay vigilant and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning before it occurs.

On December 11, the dispatch and command center of the Beijing Emergency Center received a call for help. Two members of a family were experiencing symptoms such as dizziness and nausea to varying degrees, requiring emergency medical attention. Dispatcher Qiao Zenian immediately recognized the situation as alarming. When multiple members of the same household show symptoms like dizziness and nausea during winter, it is highly likely carbon monoxide poisoning. Qiao Zenian promptly dispatched an ambulance and instructed the caller to open the windows for ventilation immediately. If possible, they were advised to move the patients outdoors, position them on their sides, and monitor their breathing.

Upon arriving at the scene, the emergency doctor preliminarily diagnosed the patients with carbon monoxide poisoning. Immediate treatment, including oxygen inhalation and continuous monitoring, was administered. The dispatcher also quickly coordinated with the hospital's emergency department to establish a green channel for the patients, enabling expedited hospital admission and further treatment.

During the heating season, the dispatch and command center proactively compiled a list of hospitals in Beijing equipped with hyperbaric oxygen chambers. Each hospital’s capability was confirmed through direct communication by phone. This preparation ensures that when a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning is reported, the center can instantly establish a green channel with an appropriately equipped hospital, enabling the patient to receive timely and effective treatment.

Important Reminder:If carbon monoxide poisoning occurs, you should open windows for ventilation immediately, leave the dangerous environment as quickly as possible, move the patient to a location with good air circulation, and call 120 for emergency assistance without delay. Before the ambulance arrives, it is necessary to loosen the patient’s collar to ensure the airway remains open toprevent vomiting and suffocation,keep the patient warm,and closely monitor their consciousness and breathing. If the patient becomes unconscious and is not breathing (or exhibits agonal breathing), it is advised to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately.