As colder months set in, Brussels authorities are sounding the alarm over the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, a silent killer that becomes increasingly common during the winter season.
Each year, more than 120 cases of CO intoxication are reported across the Brussels Region, with several resulting in fatalities — incidents experts say are entirely preventable.
“Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of fatal poisonings reported to the Poison Centre in Belgium,” said Jonas Van Baelen, pharmacist and expert at the Brussels Poison Centre. “In Brussels alone, two to three people fall victim each week. In 2024, four deaths were recorded.”
CO is a colorless and odorless gas produced when fuels like gas, oil, or coal burn incompletely. Faulty heating systems, water heaters, and chimneys — often coupled with poor ventilation — are the most common sources. Nearly half of all incidents occur in bathrooms, where windows are often closed and air circulation is poor.
Symptoms of CO poisoning range from headaches and nausea to dizziness and confusion. In severe cases, exposure can cause loss of consciousness or death. Van Baelen urges anyone experiencing suspicious symptoms to immediately call 112.
Christophe Danlois of Brussels Environment stressed the importance of regular inspections. “The main way to prevent CO poisoning is to have your boiler and water heater periodically checked by a certified professional,” he said. “This ensures the safe operation of your equipment and can save lives.”
The risk, authorities warn, is growing as more non-compliant or improperly installed appliances appear on the market. Delphine Raymond, head of Sibelga’s Gas Operations Service, said the utility frequently intervenes to shut off gas in unsafe homes until systems meet safety standards.
Major Marc Baudhuin from the Brussels Fire Department’s Prevention Department advises residents to keep rooms well-ventilated and never block ventilation grilles. “Regular maintenance of heating and water heating systems — carried out annually or biennially by approved technicians — is not only vital but legally required,” he added.
To boost public awareness, Sibelga, the Poison Centre, the Brussels Fire Department, and Bruxelles Environnement have launched a multi-month CO prevention campaign. The initiative includes home visits where residents can receive expert guidance and request a free carbon monoxide detector by emailing sensibilisation@firebru.brussels.
Authorities hope the campaign will curb preventable tragedies and reinforce life-saving safety habits before the cold fully sets in. As Danlois concluded, “A well-maintained boiler and an open window can make all the difference between safety and disaster.”
