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Difficulty breathing due to smoke or toxic inhalation

In a fire, large amounts of smoke are released which may cause dyspnea or asphyxiation if inhaled. Regardless of assisting in a fire or after rescuing a victim, we shall take simple precautionary measures:
  • Make sure doors are propped open.
  • Turn off breakers to avoid risk of electrocution.
  • When entering the area, protect your nose and mouth with a triangular damp cloth.
  • Prevent explosions and collapsing.
  • People involved in the rescue must stay in a strategically organized chain.
  • Remove the victim from danger by holding them under the arms.
Another frequent cause of asphyxiation is due to carbon monoxide produced by deficient combustion or the use of a combustion engine in a closed space.
Another cause can be the release of gases (domestic gas has an added characteristic odor that allows easy detection of a gas leak).
Gas poisonings symptoms begin as a slow drowsiness that if persevere may lead to death.
Follow the same procedures as described for smoke intoxication.
Once the victim that has suffered intoxication by smoke or toxic inhalation has been rescued we should:
  • Remove victim from danger and place them into a well-ventilated place.
  • Monitor vital signs.
  • Ensure the permeability of the respiratory tract.
  • If the victim is not breathing, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
  • If the victim is still unconscious or has taken in toxic substances, relocate them to the nearest health center immediately.
  • Constantly monitor vital signs and maintain body heat.
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