3 Dead from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning This Month in Shenzhen

Posted 2021-04-29 ThatsShenzhen

Every year, 80 percent of carbon monoxide poisoning fatalities in China occur between December and February. Cold temperatures prompt residents to close their windows and doors, raising the risk of accidents.

This past month alone, three people in Shenzhen have died due to faulty gas-powered water heaters.

On January 6, a couple living in a Nanshan urban village were poisoned while showering, a local TV station reported. Four days later, the same thing happened to a woman, 25, living in Longgang District. When her roommate checked on her after half an hour, she discovered the victim passed out on the bathroom floor.

Carbon monoxide, the result of incomplete gas combustion, is invisible and odorless. When allowed to accumulate inside an enclosed area, it can quickly become deadly.

Initial signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, headaches and nausea. If you suspect you've been poisoned, immediately open windows and seek help or call 120.

'Direct exhaust water heaters' (直排式热水器) increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

Certain types of water heaters are less safe than others (see above); besides ensuring your living space is well-ventilated, check gas-powered appliances at least once a year and consider installing a CO detector.

[Images via Diyi Xianchang, Baidu Baike]

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