Couple Dies from Generator Fumes in Rivers State

Police in Rivers State have confirmed the deaths of a couple who reportedly died from inhaling carbon monoxide after running a generator inside their apartment in Port Harcourt.

The incident happened in the Port Harcourt Township area after the couple powered the generator inside their home due to a power outage and heavy rainfall on Saturday night. An eyewitness, identified as James, told the Newsmen that the couple placed the generator in the passageway of their apartment, assuming it would not affect them in the bedroom. However, the toxic fumes from the generator led to their untimely deaths.

By Saturday morning, neighbours grew concerned when the couple failed to emerge from their room. After knocking on the door and receiving no response, they decided to break into the apartment. Inside, they discovered the lifeless bodies of the couple. The incident was then reported to the Central Police Station in Port Harcourt Township.

Police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed that the couple died from carbon monoxide inhalation, and their bodies have been deposited at the morgue.

Dr. Chinazor Offor, a medical practitioner in Port Harcourt, explained that carbon monoxide displaces oxygen from the blood, leading to heart and respiratory failure. She warned that exposure to the gas for just five to 15 minutes could be fatal, affecting both the heart and brain.

Dr. Offor also urged the public to avoid placing generators near living spaces, recommending they be kept at a safe distance from homes to prevent exposure to dangerous fumes.