A Press News

Family Hospitalised After Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Coal Burning

Barangay Bacungan, November 28 – A local family of four was hospitalised early this morning after suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning due to burning coal in their home. The family, including two young children, experienced symptoms of dizziness, headaches, and nausea before calling emergency services for help.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and measured dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide in the home. Officials report that the family had been using a coal-burning heater overnight without adequate ventilation, allowing CO—a colourless, odourless gas—to accumulate indoors.

Fire Chief Louie S. Puracan warns residents of the risks of burning fuel sources indoors without proper ventilation. “Carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer’ because it is undetectable without a CO alarm,” he said. “Anyone using coal, gas, or wood-burning appliances should ensure their home is well-ventilated and equipped with working CO detectors.”

The family is currently in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. Emergency services urge the community to take precautions, especially during the colder months, to prevent such incidents from occurring.

• How could the family avoid carbon monoxide poisoning?
• What type of stove or heating device do you use in your home? (e.g., coal, charcoal, gas, wood, or electric stove)
• Do you use any type of fuel for cooking or heating? If so, what type?
• Does your stove or heating use oxygen from the air in your home? 
• What are the waste gases produced by your stove at home (smoke or carbon monoxide)? 
• Do you have any ventilation, like an open window, to help let fresh air in while cooking?
• Have you noticed any issues with the air quality inside your home when cooking or heating?