[Accidental carbon monoxide poisoning caused by incomplete combustion of liquid gases]

Amongst mortal accidents by carbon monoxide intoxication, an incomplete combustion of liquid gas consists a frequent CO-source. In Switzerland, during the last two years, at least seventeen persons died from such intoxications. Non conform installation of gas apparatus, for example the placing of a five-liter boiler without evacuation pipes in a small room, lack of fresh air conduction, or deficient installation of the apparatus, are the principal causes. Even professionals are not sufficiently aware of the danger of this kind of apparatus. Since a carbon monoxide intoxication is difficult to diagnose, it should be thought of at once if a CO-source is present. Information of the public on one hand, technical measures on the other hand could help avoiding such accidents.