Barbecue celebration in Straubing ends dramatically: 13 guests in the hospital!
After a barbecue in Straubing, two men suffered carbon monoxide poisoning. Eleven others showed increased values.

Barbecue celebration in Straubing ends dramatically: 13 guests in the hospital!
Last Saturday there was a worrying incident during a barbecue in Straubing in which two men suffered carbon monoxide poisoning. The celebration took place in a vehicle hall and attracted around 50 guests. Unfortunately, ventilation was inadequate, leading to a dangerous buildup of the colorless, odorless gas that results from incomplete combustion. In higher concentrations, carbon monoxide can act as a strong respiratory poison and is also notorious for blocking the absorption of oxygen in the blood. The situation became particularly critical when an 85-year-old temporarily lost consciousness and a 68-year-old complained of malaise-like symptoms. Given these circumstances, the emergency services were alerted and looked after the two men, who were then taken to hospital.
This was followed by a comprehensive investigation by the rescue team, which also recorded eleven other guests who were found to have elevated carbon monoxide levels. These were also transferred to the clinic. The incident was subsequently reported to the police so that further investigations could be initiated. The reason for the barbecue in the hall is still unclear, as many are wondering how this dangerous situation could have come about.
The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO), as it is known in the professional world, is a highly dangerous gas. It has no color and no smell, which makes it all the more concerning. According to the experts, it can be fatal at a concentration of just 0.5% in the air we breathe. The gas binds to hemoglobin more strongly than oxygen, which severely impairs the transport of oxygen in the blood. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness and nausea - symptoms that can be easily overlooked and which affected guests experienced. There have been numerous cases in the past where carbon monoxide has caused serious poisoning and even death.
The importance of proper ventilation and safety precautions is further highlighted by this incident. Experts advise Scharf to be careful, especially when using devices that cause combustion processes. According to current guidelines, the maximum workplace concentration (MAK) should be 20 ml m−3 to protect people's health.
A reminder to the community
This incident serves as a cautionary tale for anyone gathering indoors. Barbecues are popular in the cooler seasons, but safety precautions are essential. Local authorities will closely monitor the incident to ensure that similar situations can be avoided in the future. Everyone should be aware that careful planning and following safety instructions can save lives.
In this case, the cooperation between the emergency services, police and medical professionals worked quickly so that something worse could be prevented. The incident is a serious reminder that safety should always come first.
For further information on carbon monoxide and its risks, please read the Wikipedia page on carbon monoxide or follow the latest news on [IDOWA](https://www.idowa.de/regionen/straubing-bogen/straubing/13-gaeste-nach-grill Feier-in-straubing-im-klinik-art-364704).