Man Poisoned While Sleeping in Car with AC On

In a stark reminder of the unseen dangers lurking in everyday scenarios, a recent incident underscores the critical importance of car safety, particularly concerning carbon monoxide poisoning. Reports indicate that a man, awaiting his friends in his car with the air conditioning running, fell asleep. When his companions returned and found him unresponsive, they were prompted to rush him to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed carbon monoxide poisoning.

Medical professionals are now urging car owners to exercise extreme caution. The advice is clear: running the air conditioning in a vehicle while idling, with the windows closed, poses a significant risk. In such conditions, the engine may not completely combust the fuel, leading to the production of carbon monoxide. This odorless, colorless gas can then infiltrate the cabin through the air conditioning system. Trapped within the confined space, carbon monoxide concentrations can rapidly escalate, becoming lethal.

For electric vehicles or gasoline-powered cars with the engine off, officials recommend partially opening a window while resting to maintain adequate oxygen levels and prevent discomfort.

When it comes to gasoline vehicles with the AC on, drivers must avoid parking in enclosed environments like underground garages or tunnels, where airflow is restricted. The root of the problem lies in the incomplete fuel combustion during idle periods.

The risk is amplified when the air conditioning system is set to outside circulation. Even when using the internal recirculation feature, the potential for carbon monoxide exposure persists, as exhaust fumes can seep into the vehicle through doors and chassis openings.

Moreover, experts advise against prolonged sleeping inside vehicles and suggest setting alarms to remind yourself to ventilate the car regularly.