Carbon monoxide alarm saves lives: Fire brigade operation in Neu-Ulm!

Carbon monoxide alarm saves lives: Fire brigade operation in Neu-Ulm!

A dramatic operation in an apartment building in Neu-Ulm caused a stir on Saturday evening. Shortly after 6 p.m., a carbon monoxide detector sounded the alarm and alerted the fire department, rescue service and police. A worrying incident occurred in the building, which is heated by a gas boiler, which could have had potentially fatal consequences. Fortunately, this time there was no shock and no injuries were reported Swabian newspaper reported.

The alarm from a resident proved to be life-saving. While the firefighters entered the apartments using breathing apparatus, the residents had to wait outside the building in temperatures of around 30 degrees. An apartment had to be broken into due to the resident's absence on vacation. Above all, simple things such as a cool refreshment from the residents ensured that the emergency services remained motivated despite the very sweaty conditions.

Carbon monoxide – invisible poison

Carbon monoxide is extremely toxic, and just a few breaths can cause loss of consciousness. Prolonged inhalation can even be fatal. The alarmed CO detector prevented anything worse from happening and alerted the emergency services to the increased concentration of the dangerous gas in all residential units. Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion, for example in gas boilers and fireplaces. To ensure your own safety, carbon monoxide detectors are not mandatory in Germany, but they are still extremely useful, especially if they are used for heating purposes.

The Bos needs provides examples of carbon monoxide detectors available on the market. These devices work without an external power supply and have a lifespan of up to seven years. They warn of dangerous CO concentrations at different alarm levels, which enormously increases the safety of residents. It is particularly important
that the devices are installed in rooms with fuel-powered heaters.

Regular inspection and maintenance

Fire Chief Rainer Siegwardt praised the resident's quick reaction and the cooperation of the community. However, the fire department suggested that regular checks be carried out by experts in order to avoid potential sources of danger such as blocked exhaust pipes or technical defects. Experts from co-makes-ko point out how important it is to have fireplaces and heating systems checked regularly by a chimney sweep.

After the operation, the residents were only allowed back into their apartments after a chimney sweep had checked the heating system. The emergency services were provided with drinks and the residents had already made arrangements to stay with relatives in the event of an emergency. While the investigation into the exact cause of the alarm is still ongoing, this incident clearly shows how important it is to act quickly and take the right precautions to keep your home safe.