Córdoba health officials and firefighters issue winter heating safety guidelines

The Córdoba Ministry of Health released a set of recommendations to prevent carbon‑monoxide (CO) poisoning as temperatures fall. It warned that CO is produced by incomplete combustion of wood, coal or gas, is odorless and colourless, and can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, seizures or death. The health agency urged residents to keep spaces ventilated, avoid using homemade or faulty heating devices, have gas appliances inspected annually by a licensed gas‑fitter, ensure the flame is blue, and call emergency numbers (911, fire, civil defence) if symptoms appear.

Firefighters’ senior officer Lucas Amici echoed the advice, stressing the importance of professional inspections, checking flame colour, watching for strange odors, and ensuring proper venting. He highlighted common hazards such as drying clothes on heaters, using brazier‑type heaters in closed rooms, and the risk of indoor fires. The key precautions he promoted were regular maintenance by certified gas technicians, keeping heating areas well ventilated, and avoiding risky practices during the winter months.