A 7-year-old child was hospitalized in Lviv after a suspected case of carbon monoxide poisoning. The incident occurred on the evening of March 29 in an apartment on Shota Rustaveli Street, 18.
According to the Department of Civil Protection of the Lviv Regional State Administration, at around 10:05 p.m., the boy, born in 2018, was taken to St. Nicholas Hospital in a moderate condition.
Due to the serious risks associated with carbon monoxide, experts have issued a reminder of important safety precautions that can help prevent such incidents:
Key safety recommendations to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning:
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Install gas detectors that identify natural gas leaks and microconcentrations of carbon monoxide.
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Ensure regular inspections of gas appliances by certified service providers.
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Chimneys from seasonal-use heaters, boilers, and water heaters should be checked at least once a year, before the heating season;
Year-round appliances — twice a year (spring and autumn). -
Chimneys from cooking-heating stoves should be cleaned twice a year: before and after the heating season.
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For gas water heaters:
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Brick, asbestos-cement, or ceramic chimneys — at least every 6 months;
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Metal, asbestos-cement, ceramic, or heat-resistant concrete — at least once a year.
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Ventilation channels should be checked and cleaned simultaneously with chimneys.
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Annual inspections of chimneys and ventilation systems should be conducted by specialized services.
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Ensure that chimney and vent tops are not within wind backdraft zones.
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For gas equipment with flue gas exhaust, clean the chimneys and vents twice a year.
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In winter, monitor the chimney tops to prevent freezing or damage.
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Never leave gas appliances unattended while in use.
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Do not install mechanical exhaust fans in rooms with gas appliances connected to chimneys.
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Do not use gas stoves for heating purposes.
These simple yet essential rules can help protect lives and prevent tragedies.