A tragic incident occurred early on December 26, 2023, in Forni di Sopra, Udine, where a family of three suffered severe carbon monoxide poisoning, leading to the death of one family member.
The fatality is identified as a 66-year-old woman, whose 73-year-old husband and 28-year-old daughter are currently hospitalized and reported to be in grave condition. The emergency was triggered around 4:30 AM when the daughter’s boyfriend, living in Tuscany, initiated the alarm after receiving alarming messages from her indicating persistent vomiting and fainting symptoms.
According to the firefighters of Udine, who responded to the call, they arrived at the family’s home following instructions from the SORES (Regional Emergency Health Operations Room). "At around 4:35 AM, we received the request for intervention for some people at the residence," stated officials from the firefighting crew. Upon their arrival, they spotted the daughter at the window, signaling for help.
Upon entering the residence, firefighters discovered the woman unconscious and her husband struggling to breathe. The firefighters utilized their instruments to detect high levels of carbon monoxide, which prompted them to swiftly open all windows for ventilation. Meanwhile, CPR efforts were immediately commenced on the unresponsive woman. Emergency medical personnel arrived shortly afterward, transporting the daughter and father to nearby hospitals, but were unable to revive the mother.
"Upon arrival, medical staff declared the woman deceased, whilst the husband underwent intubation and was airlifted to the Cattinara Hospital in Trieste for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The daughter was taken to Tolmezzo Hospital by ambulance," said the medical responders, reflecting the urgent and dire situation.
Reports suggest the source of carbon monoxide may have originated from the home's heating system. Initial findings indicate the dangerous gas might have leaked from the boiler. "From initial investigations, it seems the monoxide was released from a boiler," stated sources from local media outlets, emphasizing the potential risks associated with heating equipment.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the deadly nature of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can go undetected until it's too late, due to its colorless and odorless characteristics. Local authorities are urging homeowners to regularly check and maintain their heating systems to prevent future occurrences.
Families are advised to invest in carbon monoxide detectors and to understand the warning signs of potential carbon monoxide exposure, which can include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and confusion. Ensuring proper ventilation when using heating appliances is also recommended.
This heartbreaking tragedy not only highlights the dangers of carbon monoxide but also the unexpected nature of such incidents during family gatherings, especially around the holiday season when many families are together.
