Two Die of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Thessaloniki
Greece has been struck again by a carbon monoxide poisoning tragedy, with two young men in their 20s succumbing to the odorless, poisonous gas in separate incidents at the 4-star Hotel Nepheli in Thessaloniki.
The hotel was closed after the second death; an initial investigation of the first death did not turn up any carbon monoxide leaks, eKathimerini reports.
In October of 2006, two young children succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning at the Louis Corcyra Hotel on the Greek island of Corfu. Their parents were also sickened but survived.
While such incidents are very rare, they are more likely in the fall months when heating systems may be turned on again for the first time that season. Minor carbon monoxide leaks may cause symptoms similar to the flu; if you are feeling ill and find you temporarily feel much better outside or in another area of the building, inform the management and change your room - or your hotel. In some victims, the skin will turn a bright pink or be flushed red.
More from About.com First Aid: Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
I think that no matter how small these incidents are people are dying and becoming sick, the health and safety advise is that these are checked and certified safe, when they have been checked and that for a small cost the hoteliers can install carbon monoxide detectors. if not volantary then by law. all life if precious.
Terence, I think you’re absolutely right. CO detectors in every room would be a great addition to the amenities at these “luxury” hotels! Rather have them than the fancy soaps – and it would be less cost per year.