There are reports of people dying after sleeping in old cars with the engine running. Many wonder how this can happen. The cause is not death by lack of air from stagnant air inside the car, as many mistakenly believe. The real silent killer is carbon monoxide gas (CO), produced by incomplete combustion while idling with the air conditioner on. The main cause is the aged engine's inefficiency.
The mechanism of this silent killer is complex and frightening because it has no smell, color, or taste. This causes people sleeping in old cars with the air conditioner on to be unaware. The process occurs as follows:
1. The engine runs at idling speed while the car is stationary with the engine left on. Fuel combustion is incomplete compared to driving on the road, producing a much higher amount of carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from the exhaust pipe.
2. The toxic gas flows back into the cabin when the car is stationary. Exhaust fumes linger under and around the car, then gradually seep inside through air vents, deteriorated door seals, or gaps in the car body panels.
3. The blood-binding mechanism (CO competing for hemoglobin): When we inhale carbon monoxide, the scientific danger arises here. Normally, the body requires oxygen to bind with hemoglobin in red blood cells to supply the brain and organs. However, CO binds to hemoglobin 200-250 times more effectively than oxygen! When CO takes the place, oxygen cannot bind to red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin.
4. Acute oxygen deprivation in the brain: When red blood cells are occupied by this toxic gas, the body experiences severe oxygen shortage. The first organ to decline is the brain. But why doesn’t the person wake up? The key is that CO causes dizziness, weakness, and confusion quickly. While sleeping, the brain gradually shuts down deeper until deep unconsciousness occurs, leading to respiratory failure and peaceful death without struggle or pain.
So, what should you do if you must sleep in a car? If you are too tired from traveling or taking photos and cannot hold on, the safest method is to turn off the engine and crack open all four windows about 1-2 centimeters to allow natural airflow and ventilation. Though it may be a bit hot, this ensures 100% safety from toxic gas.
Arkom Rumsuwan
E-Mailchang.arcom@thairath.co.th
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/chang.arcom
https://www.facebook.com/ARCOM-CHANG-Thairath-Online-525369247505358/