Girl Hospitalized After Carbon Monoxide Exposure in Mława

20 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A 13-year-old suffered carbon monoxide poisoning after an unchecked gas heater. Learn what happened and how expats can stay safe.

13-year-old girl hospitalized after carbon monoxide poisoning. The incident occurred on a Saturday evening in a private home in Mława. A gas water heater had not received technical checks for years.

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What happened in Mława?

Emergency crews rushed to a housing estate in Mława. A 13-year-old girl fainted after bathing. Consequently, her family called for help immediately. Paramedics transported the child to hospital. Fortunately, doctors report no life-threatening injuries. However, firefighters found dangerously high carbon monoxide levels inside the home. Measurements showed concentrations many times above safe limits. In addition, police noted the gas heater had no recent inspections.

Carbon monoxide poisoning: how it happened

The water heater released carbon monoxide while the bathroom lacked proper ventilation. Moreover, combustion appliances slowly emit the gas if they malfunction. Therefore, people often get exposed without knowing it. Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless. It binds to hemoglobin and limits oxygen transport in the blood. Consequently, symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness. In worst cases, exposure causes permanent harm or death.

Why this matters for expats living in Poland

In Poland many older homes still use gas heaters. Moreover, owners sometimes skip routine safety checks. Landlords must ensure safe equipment, but enforcement varies by region. In addition, tenants often assume landlords handle inspections. Therefore, you should confirm maintenance responsibilities in your lease. If you sign with a landlord, ask about inspection records. Also, verify recent checks before moving in. Remember, a “mandat” means a fine in Poland for legal breaches. Also, PESEL is a national ID number. Finally, NFZ is the public health insurer and ZUS handles social security.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland, install a carbon monoxide alarm and test it monthly. Also, schedule gas appliance checks with a certified technician. Moreover, keep ventilation clear and avoid DIY repairs on gas devices. If you suspect carbon monoxide, leave the building immediately and call emergency services at 112. Finally, keep your landlord or building manager informed about inspections and repairs.

Authorities continue their investigation into the heater’s maintenance history. Consequently, they will determine if anyone breached safety rules. In addition, officials remind residents to keep vents clear. Moreover, they recommend installing a detector in every home. Therefore, a cheap device can prevent tragedies.

Local emergency numbers and procedures remain the same for foreigners. In addition, dial 112 for fire, ambulance, or police anywhere in Poland. Emergency responders often speak basic English in larger towns. However, you should keep an interpreter number ready if you need detailed help.

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