Sinazo Novukela & Nomagugu Hloma 
 
A mother and child recently passed away in their sleep while two other children in the same household were found with symptoms consistent with carbon monoxide poisoning. 
This comes after the family ignited an imbawula (brazier) indoors to keep warm during a cold winter night. However, due to the lack of ventilation in the house, the smoke which sometimes may not be visible to the naked eye, but can still be inhaled, resulted in carbon monoxide poisoning. 
In a separate incident more than three weeks ago, two young boys died after sleeping in a room with a burning imbawula. Both these tragic events were reported in the West Rand. 
Following these tragic incidents, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has reiterated its warning to the public to avoid using imbawula indoors and in enclosed spaces as the smoke causes deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, severe burns, and can even set one's home on fire. 
"While imbawula is commonly used for warmth in many households, it can be extremely dangerous when used in areas with poor ventilation. The smoke it emits contains carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can build up in enclosed spaces without being detected, as it is colourless and odourless.
"Inhaling carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen carried in the bloodstream. Once inhaled, it replaces oxygen in red blood cells, which can lead to severe tissue damage, loss of consciousness, or even death," said the Department. 
While specific statistics for burns due to imbawula are not readily available, it is known that a brazier is one of the most common causes of burn injuries. It is predominantly used in townships, informal settlements and hostels. 
It is important that communities to take precautionary measures and avoid using imbawula or any coal or wood-burning heating devices while sleeping. Even electric and gas heaters should not be left on throughout the night as they can also cause severe burns and damage to property. 
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness or weakness, nausea and vomiting, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, seizures, confusion or disorientation and loss of consciousness. 
The GDoH calls on all residents to spread awareness and protect their families by avoiding risky heating methods. Safety should never be compromised, especially during winter.
For any emergencies, communities are urged to contact the Gauteng Emergency Medical Services on 10177 for 112.