The has raised fresh concerns over the growing dangers posed by carbon monoxide poisoning, warning Nigerians to take urgent safety precautions against the deadly gas commonly described as a “silent killer.”
In a statement issued on Friday, the agency cautioned that carbon monoxide remains one of the most dangerous household and industrial gases because it is virtually impossible to detect without specialised equipment.
The statement, signed by the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services, DCF Paul Abraham, noted that the gas has “no colour, no smell, and no taste,” making it particularly deadly in homes, offices, workshops and enclosed spaces where people may unknowingly inhale it for long periods.
According to the Service, carbon monoxide poisoning continues to claim lives globally every year while leaving many other victims with severe health complications.
The agency explained that the poisonous gas is produced whenever fuels such as petrol, diesel, kerosene, charcoal, cooking gas, coal and firewood fail to burn completely.
It identified electricity generators, charcoal stoves, gas cookers, kerosene appliances, faulty heating systems, industrial machinery and vehicle exhaust systems as some of the major sources of carbon monoxide exposure.
The warning comes amid increasing dependence on fuel-powered generators across Nigeria due to persistent electricity challenges, a situation experts say has heightened the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in residential communities.
The Federal Fire Service stressed that many deaths linked to generators occur when people operate them indoors, in poorly ventilated spaces, or too close to windows and living areas, allowing toxic fumes to accumulate unnoticed.
The agency warned that inhaling carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from circulating properly in the body, leading to serious medical emergencies and, in severe cases, death.
It listed common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning to include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, confusion, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.
According to the Service, victims exposed to high concentrations of the gas may collapse suddenly without warning, particularly while sleeping.
“Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous because it cannot be seen, smelt or tasted,” the statement noted. “People often do not realise they are being poisoned until it is too late.”
The agency urged Nigerians to prioritise proper ventilation whenever using fuel-powered appliances and to avoid sleeping in enclosed areas where generators, charcoal stoves or kerosene appliances are operating.
It also advised vehicle owners against leaving engines running inside garages or confined spaces, warning that exhaust fumes can quickly build up to lethal levels.
The Fire Service further recommended regular maintenance of generators, gas cookers and heating systems to prevent incomplete combustion and leakage of toxic gases.
As part of preventive measures, the agency encouraged households and businesses to install carbon monoxide detectors capable of alerting occupants whenever dangerous gas levels are detected.
Safety experts say awareness remains one of the biggest challenges in tackling carbon monoxide-related deaths, particularly in developing countries where alternative energy sources are limited and safety devices are not widely used.
The Service therefore called on community leaders, schools, religious organisations and media institutions to intensify public education campaigns on the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
It stressed that simple precautions could save lives and reduce avoidable tragedies caused by the deadly gas.
The agency also appealed to Nigerians to contact emergency responders immediately whenever symptoms of poisoning are suspected, advising victims to move quickly into fresh air while awaiting medical attention.
Public health advocates have repeatedly raised concerns over recurring incidents of generator-related deaths in Nigeria, especially during periods of prolonged power outages.
In recent years, several families across the country have reportedly died after inhaling generator fumes while sleeping, prompting renewed calls for stronger public safety campaigns and stricter adherence to safety guidelines.
The Federal Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property through public awareness, emergency response and fire safety education.
It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant at all times, insisting that increased awareness and proper safety practices remain the most effective defence against carbon monoxide poisoning.
“Safety begins with awareness,” the statement added. “Every Nigerian must take responsibility for preventing avoidable accidents linked to carbon monoxide exposure.”
