A recent carbon monoxide poisoning in Brossard serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by this silent threat
The victim, identified as 65-year-old Pierre Dutil, was rushed to the hospital but sadly didn’t make it. The leak happened in an apartment building, leading to the evacuation of around 75 residents. Two police officers who responded also needed medical attention but were later released.
The coroner, Annie Nadon, is looking into the circumstances of Dutil’s death. She might suggest safety measures to prevent future tragedies. Josh Wang, a toxicology expert, pointed out that winter is when these incidents spike, as people rely on heating systems.
He mentioned that many cases arise from using indoor heating devices or generators. It’s not common for an entire building to be affected, but it can happen. Installing carbon monoxide detectors is a smart move, and knowing the symptoms—like nausea and dizziness—can be lifesaving.
Longueuil police responded quickly to the scene, and the province’s workplace safety board is also investigating. Natural gas distributor Énergir is on standby to assist if needed.
The fire department echoed the importance of having carbon monoxide detectors in homes. They emphasized that this small device can be a lifesaver against this colorless, odorless gas.
In 2021, nearly 2,000 cases of carbon monoxide exposure were reported in Canada, but that number is likely an underestimate. While most people recover, some can face serious long-term effects.