Charcoal grill sparks carbon monoxide scare in Austrian home
Eight people in Groß-Siegharts, Lower Austria, fell ill in the early hours of 6 January 2026 after a charcoal grill caused a suspected carbon monoxide scare. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of dizziness, nausea, and headaches among the group, aged between 24 and 35.
The incident began when a charcoal grill, left burning inside a residential property, triggered a fire. Firefighters later discovered a bucket of smouldering grill charcoal covered in snow within the home. The situation prompted a large-scale response, with the Red Cross deploying three emergency physician vehicles to assess the eight affected individuals.
Despite initial concerns, tests found no detectable levels of carbon dioxide by the time responders arrived. All victims were examined but showed no signs of poisoning. Authorities later issued a warning about the dangers of using charcoal grills for heating in enclosed spaces. The operation involved both firefighters and paramedics, who worked to secure the property and treat those reporting symptoms. No serious injuries were recorded, and the group did not require hospitalisation.
The incident has highlighted the risks of improper indoor heating methods. Local firefighters reiterated safety advice, urging residents to avoid using charcoal grills inside homes. The eight individuals have since recovered, with no lasting health effects reported.
