Odourless, colourless, and tasteless, carbon monoxide gas can turn a dream holiday into a medical emergency, yet how many of us understand the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or the importance of awareness when travelling abroad?
Cases abroad
There have been numerous cases of carbon monoxide poisoning and fatalities involving travelers over the years. Unfortunately, poisoning often occurs while people are sleeping, making it especially dangerous.
- 2018: A British couple died while staying in a hotel in Egypt after being exposed to carbon monoxide in their room.
- 2022: Three American tourists died at a Sandals resort in the Bahamas due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- 2023: A young man died from carbon monoxide poisoning while volunteering and staying in a homestay in Quito, Ecuador.
- 2024: Twelve people died in a ski resort in Georgia after being exposed to carbon monoxide while sleeping in accommodation located above an Indian restaurant.
- 2025: A family died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a rental home in Mexico.
Regardless of the standard or type of accommodation, all travellers are at potential risk of CO poisoning and should travel with the knowledge of how to protect themselves.
Causes of Carbon Monoxide poisoning
Hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and rental accommodations may have faulty, outdated, or poorly maintained gas-powered appliances such as boilers and water heaters, or insufficient ventilation for fuel-burning equipment, including cooking stoves. These conditions significantly increase the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) buildup indoors.
Faults can develop even in well-maintained appliances, meaning that all travellers, regardless of where they stay are advised to take precautions.
Unfortunately, there is no single global standard for CO safety and gas safety regulations and requirements for CO detection vary widely between countries and regions worldwide.
Signs and Symptoms of Carbon monoxide poisoning
These include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or weakness
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Disorientation Loss of consciousness
Due to its non-specific, symptoms, CO poisoning can often be mild and easily mistaken for common illnesses such as food poisoning, altitude sickness and even cold or flu. Seeking medical attention can therefore be delayed and misdiagnosis can sadly lead to delayed treatment and in severe cases fatal outcomes.
It is essential to remain alert to potential carbon monoxide exposure, particularly if several people become unwell at the same time. While some symptoms may resemble cold or flu, nasal congestion and fever are not typically associated with CO poisoning.
Some people are more vulnerable to carbon monoxide exposure. These include children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with heart or lung disease, because early symptoms can be subtle and can often be mistaken for tiredness or general malaise.
Treatment for CO poisoning
Immediate treatment for CO poisoning is High flow 100% oxygen via a tight-fitting mask. It can be lifesaving if given promptly and significantly reduce long-term complications. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is also used for severe cases.
What To Do If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If you think CO exposure may be occurring, it is important to get fresh air and seek urgent medical care immediately, even if symptoms seem mild. It is important to inform accommodation staff and emergency services. Do not reenter the area until it is declared safe.
Prevention and protection when travelling abroad
Purchase a Portable CO detector/ alarm.
It is important to travel with a battery powered portable CO detector. Place it in your accommodation, especially the bedroom. It is the only proven method to detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas and gives you time to take action and seek medical treatment to prevent serious illness or even death.
WH Smith were recently involved in awareness campaign and now sell travel-friendly carbon monoxide alarms in all their airport stores nationwide, so if you have forgotten to pack one you can purchase one right before your flight. These alarms are easily available to purchase online too. Ensure the alarm is Kitemarked, or CE-approved
Inspect your accommodation
Upon arrival, check for potential sources of CO, such as boilers, gas appliances, and fireplaces that could pose a risk. Do not sleep in rooms with visible gas appliances unless it is properly vented. Be cautious if the climate is cold and the heating system is running continuously.
It may also be worth checking accommodation reviews for any mention of gas smells or previous incidents.
For travellers, the strongest defence against carbon monoxide poisoning is awareness. Understanding the risks, recognizing symptoms early, and taking simple precautions can save lives.
Make carbon monoxide safety part of your travel health preparation, always consider the risk whenever you travel and include the CO alarm in your packing list. Small and lightweight it can be easy to fit into your suitcase or backpack. For those on longer journeys and staying in a number of locations it is a good idea to attach it to your hand luggage, so it is always visible and remains at the front of your mind while you travel.
https://www.safertourism.org.uk/campaign-carbon-monoxide
