SMOKE INHALATION


     If someone is being suffocated by a smoke in a burning building, get him out as quickly as possible.  But do not go into a burning building without telling someone, or if it will place you in danger.

     Protect yourself by tying a towel or piece of thick cloth, preferably wet, around your nose and mouth.  As you move through the building, keep low, and reduce the fire risk by closing windows and doors behind you.

      Inhaled smoke can irritate the throat, causing in to contract in a sudden spasm and close the airway.  So someone found in a smoke-filled room may be unconscious and his breathing may have stopped.

      Smoke from plastic foam in upholstered chairs and sofas is highly poisonous and can kill within 2 minutes.

What to do

  • Drag the victim away from the smoke
  • Once clear of danger, if the victim is unconscious but breathing normally, put him in the recovery position.
  • If breathing has stopped or is very difficult begin mouth-to-mouth respiration as soon as possible.
  • Get someone to call the emergency and ask for an ambulance.

Protect yourself from smoke 

Cover your mouth and nose with a piece of thick, wet cloth before entering a smoke-filled room.  Keep close to the floor where the air should be clear, as hot smoke air will rise