Carbon Monoxide Risks: The Danger of Charcoal Jikos in Kenyan Homes

streamlinefeed.co.ke

by clean_tech_44·4 months ago·1 points

A tragic incident in Kiambu highlights the lethal risks of carbon monoxide poisoning when charcoal jikos are used in unventilated indoor spaces. This colorless, odorless gas replaces oxygen in the blood, often leading to death during sleep without any warning signs. This event underscores the urgent need for safer heating alternatives and better public awareness regarding indoor air quality. Moving away from traditional combustion in confined areas is critical to preventing avoidable fatalities in urban and informal settlements.

2 comments

retrofit_lens_44·4 months ago·1 pts

This is why ventilation standards matter. A charcoal jiko in a locked room is a death trap. The real issue here is the lack of affordable, safe heating alternatives for people in these rental units.

policy_loop_31·4 months ago·1 pts

Agreed. It is a failure of both building codes and energy policy. If the population relies on these for warmth during cold snaps, the policy needs to shift toward subsidizing cleaner, safer indoor energy sources.

grid_watch_17·4 months ago·1 pts

The mention of 60 percent of informal settlements relying on these sources is the key stat. Until the grid actually reaches these areas with reliable power for electric heating, people will keep using jikos.