Emergency crews were called to a home on Penola Road in Mount Gambier about 9am on Saturday after a housemate discovered all four men unconscious. The housemate began CPR and called for help.
Firefighters Rescued Unconscious Men
Paramedics, concerned about a potential gas leak, waited outside while firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and carried the men out. Three survived and were taken to hospital. Tragically, a 55-year-old man could not be revived and died at the scene.
Police are preparing a report for the coroner and stated the incident is not believed to be suspicious. The men had burned heat beads inside the house, filling a back room with carbon monoxide while they slept.
Similar Incidents Highlight Dangers
The tragedy echoes a similar case at Bedford Park in 2022, when two men and two women in their 20s and 30s brought a charcoal brazier loaded with heat beads indoors to keep warm. In 2024, three people in Sydney’s west were left unconscious after inhaling carbon monoxide from a BBQ used as an indoor heater.
Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” because it has no smell, taste, or colour. Health authorities warn that babies, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable. Symptoms range from headaches and nausea to confusion, collapse, and loss of consciousness.
Renewed Warning from Authorities
The incident has prompted a renewed warning from authorities that charcoal bead cookers, BBQs, and outdoor heaters should never be used indoors. “This is a devastating reminder that these devices are designed for outdoor use only,” a spokesperson said. “Using them inside can quickly lead to lethal levels of carbon monoxide.”
According to South Australian police, the investigation is ongoing, but no foul play is suspected. The surviving men remain in hospital in stable condition.
