Argentina homes urged to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning as winter heating use rises

With colder temperatures across Argentina, the use of heating appliances and combustion devices in households is increasing, raising the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. Diego Fontana, former head of the Misiones College of Hygiene and Safety Professionals, warned that CO is a silent, invisible gas that can accumulate without detection, replacing oxygen in the bloodstream and causing symptoms that resemble a flu, such as headaches, dizziness and drowsiness. He advised immediate ventilation of any suspect area, opening doors and windows, and seeking medical attention if exposure is suspected.

He also emphasized proper combustion practices, ensuring that fires or heaters are fully ignited and that ventilation grilles remain unobstructed. In parallel, simple home‑insulation measures can reduce heating needs: seal doors and windows, use thick curtains, lay rugs on cold floors, maximize sunlight during the day, and keep unused rooms closed. When supplemental heaters are required, Fontana stressed the importance of using gas‑powered units only with adequate ventilation and having them inspected regularly, while electrical devices should be plugged directly into outlets and kept away from flammable materials. These combined steps aim to keep homes warm safely while avoiding CO poisoning.