5 hospitalised after carbon monoxide exposure at Krugersdorp shopping centre
Emergency services rushed to the scene to assist those affected and secure the area to prevent further casualties.
Five people collapsed at a shopping centre in Monument, Krugersdorp after they were exposed to carbon monoxide yesterday.
CPF cluster chairman John Boreham said a shop at Anthos Centre was reportedly generating electricity in the basement using petrol during a power outage. This allegedly caused a build-up of carbon monoxide fumes inside the centre, reports Krugersdorp News.
After they collapsed, the people were rushed to hospital at around 13:00.
All medical services responded to the scene, along with police, the CPF and private security, to assist the affected individuals and secure the area.
The newspaper contacted shopping centre management for comment, but none was received at the time of publishing.
Carbon monoxide: The silent killer
Carbon monoxide is an odourless, tasteless and colourless gas. Poisoning happens when it is inhaled and builds up in red blood cells. According to Mayo Clinic, when carbon monoxide is inhaled, it replaces oxygen in red blood cells, starving tissue and organs of oxygen.
Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Feeling of weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain
- Disorientation/confusion
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately move outside for fresh air and call for medical help.
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