Other sources of CO poisoning include house fires and, occasionally, paint strippers containing methylene chloride. Peter is defrosting the freezer. He tries to dislodge a thick layer of ice using a hammer and knife. After a powerful swing of the hammer, he hears a pop and the fizzing sound of an escaping gas. Freon may cause lightheadedness, dizziness, headache, and nausea.
Symptoms are more severe if exposure occurs in an enclosed area.
This type of exposure is usually not medically dangerous because refrigerators do not contain significant quantities of freon. Ventilate the area. Open the windows and turn on the fan. Leave the area and get fresh air. Fresh air may resolve many uncomfortable symptoms.