Gas Heater Safety Concerns Rise as Winter Cold Sets In Across Balkh
As winter temperatures begin to drop in Balkh province, concerns over the dangers of using gas heaters have resurfaced. Residents of Mazar-i-Sharif report that several people died last year due to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by these heaters.
Hekmatullah, a local resident, has called on the Taliban authorities to use media and publications to raise public awareness about the risks associated with gas heaters, in order to prevent further deadly incidents. Another resident, Mohammad Ehsan Sharifi, added that increasing public awareness campaigns and posting warning banners would encourage people to use cleaner and safer fuels.
Meanwhile, vendors of electrical and gas appliances have urged the public to follow safety guidelines when using gas heaters and to opt for products that meet standard safety certifications. Abdul Tawab, an appliance seller in Mazar-i-Sharif, warned that gas heaters can pose serious threats to family safety if not used cautiously.
Officials from the Balkh Department of Public Health have also expressed concerns, emphasizing that gas heaters can reduce oxygen levels in enclosed spaces, leading to dizziness, vomiting, unconsciousness, and even sudden death. Kamal Khan Zadran, the department’s spokesperson, urged media outlets to assist in public awareness efforts and encourage people to use more reliable heating alternatives.
Dr. Abdul Qadir Rahmani, a physician in Mazar-i-Sharif, warned users of gas heaters to keep at least one window or door slightly open to maintain airflow and reduce the risk of asphyxiation.
Reports indicate that at least six cases of gas heater-related poisoning were recorded in Balkh last year, with similar incidents occurring in other provinces, some of which resulted in fatalities due to lack of oxygen.
