The two cases involved men in their 20s who sealed themselves inside a vehicle with tape to prevent the gas from escaping. The household chemicals mixed together produce a flammable, noxious gas and cause victims to go unconscious and eventually suffer heart failure.
The following are some of the guidelines for fire, EMS and law enforcement to consider when approaching a potential suicide scene:
o Responders should look for unusual indicators such as notes, chemical containers, taped windows and vents, and unusual smoke or fumes.
o If noxious fumes are detected, respiratory protection should be donned as soon as possible while backing away from the scene. Re-enter the scene only after proper respiratory and dermal protection are worn.
o Scan the area with binoculars before entering.
o Responders should be warned that air-purifying respirators (APR) or powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR) are not adequate for this type of response.
