As winter arrives and temperatures drop sharply, the frequency of home heating and gas use increases significantly. To keep warm, many households keep doors and windows tightly closed, leading to poor indoor ventilation and a sharp rise in the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which has become a common public safety hazard during the winter season. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, earning it the name “the silent killer.” Its symptoms are often subtle, while the condition can progress rapidly. In severe cases, it may cause brain damage, multiple organ failure, or even be life-threatening.

Recently, Changxindian Town Emergency Station under the Fengtai Sub-Center of Beijing 120 received an urgent dispatch involving a suspected case of carbon monoxide poisoning. The patient presented with altered consciousness, agitation, and vomiting, requiring immediate medical intervention. The emergency team responded promptly and rushed to the scene.

While en route, emergency physician Zou Decai contacted the patient’s family based on his clinical experience. Through communication, he learned that the patient had suddenly felt unwell at a hot pot restaurant, leading to a preliminary judgment of carbon monoxide poisoning. The emergency team immediately provided telephone guidance, instructing those on site to open windows for ventilation and turn the patient’s head to one side to prevent aspiration in case of vomiting, thereby securing valuable time for subsequent treatment.

Upon arrival, Dr. Zou conducted a comprehensive assessment and found the patient to be confused, restless, and pale. Nurse Gao Jinyu simultaneously monitored the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate and promptly administered oxygen therapy and other emergency measures. With precise and timely intervention by the emergency team, the patient’s agitation gradually subsided. The patient was then quickly transported to the hospital’s emergency department for further treatment. Follow-up confirmed a diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning, and the patient has since fully recovered after standardized treatment.

Beijing 120 reminds the public that understanding emergency response measures and prevention strategies for carbon monoxide poisoning is critical to safeguarding life and health.

I. Emergency Response: Every Second Counts, Act Scientifically

In the event of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately open doors and windows for ventilation and move the patient to an area with fresh air. Keep the patient warm and call 120 without delay. While waiting for emergency services, ensure the airway remains clear. If the patient vomits, turn the head to one side to prevent aspiration and choking. If cardiac or respiratory arrest occurs, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately to maximize the chance of survival.

II. Prevention First: Multiple Measures to Eliminate Risks

1. Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Maintain proper air circulation. When using combustion-based appliances, ensure sufficient ventilation between indoor and outdoor spaces to reduce carbon monoxide accumulation—this is the most critical preventive measure.

2. Standardized Installation and Regular Inspection: Gas water heaters, wall-mounted boilers, and similar appliances must be installed by qualified professionals in strict accordance with safety standards. Regularly inspect equipment and pipelines for aging or leaks, and repair or replace them promptly if hazards are identified.

3. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install certified carbon monoxide alarms in key areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. If an alarm sounds, investigate immediately and take appropriate action.

4. Correct Unsafe Usage Habits: Coal stoves should be equipped with proper chimneys to ensure unobstructed exhaust. Be sure to extinguish all open flames before going to sleep to prevent poisoning during the night.

Winter heating should always prioritize safety. Although carbon monoxide poisoning is dangerous, adhering to the principles of proper ventilation, qualified equipment, early warning through alarms, and correct emergency response can effectively reduce risks—allowing warmth and safety to go hand in hand throughout the winter season.