High carbon monoxide levels discovered in Knokke-Heist

Simona Mazzeo

Credit: Junior Verbeeke

Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper): In Knokke-Heist, high carbon monoxide levels were found while helping an elderly man. Police Commissioner Philippe Vandierendonck noted quick action prevented further harm, the man was hospitalized in critical condition.

In Knokke-Heist, emergency services discovered dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide (CO) while responding to an elderly man who had fallen ill in an apartment on Blancgarinstraat. While providing care, the ambulance crew noticed unusual CO levels in the air. Further checks confirmed the presence of harmful CO in the apartment, prompting immediate action to ensure safety.

How did emergency services respond to high carbon monoxide levels in Knokke-Heist?

According to police Commissioner Philippe Vandierendonck, the unexpected discovery of carbon monoxide (CO) allowed emergency responders to act quickly, possibly preventing more harm to other residents. CO is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly if not detected, especially in small spaces. The elderly man’s symptoms were likely caused by CO exposure, highlighting the importance of quick emergency responses. Authorities conducted further checks and ventilated the building to ensure the safety of all residents.

The ambulance crews called the fire department after detecting carbon monoxide (CO) in the building, leading to the evacuation of all residents, including five people still inside. Emergency Zone I stated that no one can return until it’s safe. The fire department ventilated the apartments, and the building owner was contacted to address the issue. The man who needed help was revived and taken to the hospital in critical condition, but his situation was not linked to the CO levels, as he had a history of heart problems. His wife, who was with him, had no complaints, suggesting that multiple factors were involved.

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Simona Mazzeo is a journalist and legal professional with a strong focus on European affairs, justice, and social advocacy. A law graduate and practicing lawyer based in Agropoli, she has built a versatile career that bridges journalism, law, and community service.Simona serves as a delegated councilor for the Equal Opportunities Committee of the Bar Association of Vallo della Lucania, where she promotes fairness and equal representation within the legal system. She is also qualified for registration in the list of Special Curators of minors in civil and criminal matters at the Court of Vallo della Lucania, ensuring that the rights of vulnerable children are safeguarded throughout legal proceedings.In addition to her legal practice, Simona is a founding member of the Free Lawyer Movement, a non-profit organization providing legal aid to those unable to afford representation. As a journalist, she contributes insightful analyses and reports on European institutions, Italian affairs, and pressing social issues, combining her legal expertise with a passion for truth and justice.Through her work in both law and media, Simona Mazzeo continues to advocate for equality, transparency, and access to justice for all.
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