No, Rescue 1122 says gas heaters must never be used while sleeping. A gas heater in a room without enough fresh air can build up carbon monoxide (CO), a gas you cannot see or smell. Someone who is asleep cannot notice the warning symptoms, so switch the heater off before bed.
Why it is dangerous
- CDC says people who are asleep, drunk or under the influence of other substances can die from CO poisoning.
- Babies, older people and people with heart disease, anaemia (khoon ki kami) or breathing problems are most at risk (CDC).
- Rescue 1122 says carbon monoxide poisoning (gas se dam ghutna) has cost lives on several occasions.
Safer ways to stay warm
- Use a gas heater only while you are awake, keep a window or vent slightly open, and switch it off from time to time instead of running it for hours (Rescue 1122).
- Have heaters serviced regularly by a qualified technician, and keep rooms well ventilated (NHS).
- Fit a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm near where people sleep (CDC).
- For bedrooms, use an electric or oil-filled heater instead of a gas one (Doncaster and Bassetlaw NHS Trust).
- Never sit in a parked car with the engine and heater running and the windows shut (Rescue 1122).
Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning
Headache (sar dard), dizziness (chakkar aana), feeling or being sick, weakness, tiredness and confusion. Symptoms often get worse in the affected room and better once you go outside (NHS).
What to do
- Switch off the heater if you can, and get everyone outside into fresh air (NHS, Rescue 1122).
- If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply and do not use matches, lighters or electric switches, because a spark can cause an explosion (Rescue 1122).
- Get medical advice as soon as possible, and do not go back inside until you have (NHS). A general physician can check anyone with mild symptoms.
Emergency signs
Call Rescue 1122 or Edhi 115 straight away if someone is finding it hard to breathe, has suddenly become confused, has chest or muscle pain, feels very weak, or has lost consciousness (NHS). Do not drive yourself to hospital (NHS).
Sources
General health information from the DoctorOS Team, not a diagnosis. For advice about your own situation, see a doctor.