Poisonous Gases
Of all the poisonous gases available, there are two that can provide a peaceful and reliable death so warning signs must be used for first responders and the public alike.
Unlike the inert gases (eg. nitrogen), poison gases do not end life by excluding oxygen.
Rather, poison gases interact with the body in other ways to cause a desired cerebral (happy) hypoxic death.
Important Safety Considerations
The rapid production of large amounts of some poisonous gases poses a serious risk to others.
This means there are very real risks for those who might try to enter the area or attempt resuscitation.
While first responders will be aware of the risk posed by this gas (and will not to attempt resuscitation without protective equipment), innocent bystanders could be harmed.
This is why it is necessary to choose a remote site or location. If the gas is to be produced in the confined space, prominent warning signs should absolutely be displayed in the windows.
A film detailing the risks to emergency first responders has been produced by San Diego Health, Hazardous Materials Division.
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