DRF Luftrettung has added portable carbon monoxide detectors to its fleet of helicopters, having noticed in recent years that its crews are often exposed to the toxic gas in emergency scenarios. CO can stem from indoor grilling, leaky fireplaces, faulty heating systems and many other sources.

Lars Greschke, DRF medical coordinator, explains the dangers and the need for this precaution: “The gas is highly toxic and highly flammable, but unnoticeable,” he says. “The effects of CO poisoning often are not felt until later, and the gas doesn't cause any clear symptoms either. This is why people experiencing CO poisoning often feel unwell, similar to the beginning of a flu or a gastro-intestinal infection. Blackouts and symptoms of paralysis, similar to a stroke, are also possible. Undetected, the toxic gas may lead to unconsciousness and even death.”

In order to protect its employees, DRF Luftrettung has also equipped all its HEMS bases with CO detectors. “In general, the helicopter emergency physician carries the device with him, since he usually enters the location first,” Greschke continues.

If the CO concentration is too high, the device warns the crew by vibrating, lighting up and beeping. It shows CO concentrations in parts per million (ppm) and warns in two stages – at a concentration of 30ppm and 60ppm.

Greschke feels the CO detectors are money well spent: “The e400 we spent per HEMS base is worth it. It is a small investment for maximum safety,” he concludes.