An invisible danger in winter

Bukhari stoves, sandali and charcoal or wood fires keep families warm, but when fuel burns without enough fresh air it produces carbon monoxide. This gas has no colour and no smell. In a closed room it can poison everyone, often while they are asleep. Every winter people in Afghanistan, including children, die from it. The good news is that it can be prevented.

How to heat your home more safely

  • Use a bukhari only with a chimney pipe that takes the smoke outside. Check the pipe before winter and repair any holes, loose joints or blockages.
  • Never bring a charcoal brazier or burning coals into a closed room, and never use them for a sandali at night while people sleep.
  • Do not sleep with a gas heater, charcoal or wood fire burning in a room with the doors and windows closed.
  • Keep a small opening for fresh air in any room where a fire is burning.
  • Never use a gas cooker or oven to heat a room, and never run a generator indoors.
  • Keep children away from hot stoves and sandali coals to prevent burns. Keep blankets and clothes away from the fire.

Know the warning signs

Headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, weakness, confusion and unusual sleepiness can be signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is a serious warning if several people in the same room feel unwell at the same time, or feel better when they go outside.

What to do

  1. Open doors and windows at once and get everyone out into fresh air.
  2. Put out the fire or turn off the heater if you can do so safely.
  3. Do not let the person fall asleep. Keep them warm with blankets in the fresh air.

When to see a doctor

Go to the nearest hospital immediately if anyone has fainted, is confused, is hard to wake, or has trouble breathing, chest pain or a convulsion. Pregnant women, babies and older people need urgent care even if their symptoms seem mild. For a burn that is large, deep, or on the face or hands, also get care quickly.

If you have questions about safe heating or mild symptoms after exposure, book a consultation with a doctor in the app or visit a clinic.