Airbnb’s Silent Killer: The Rising Incidences of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Airbnb has been a popular platform for travelers seeking affordable and convenient accommodation. However, many people are unaware that Airbnb properties have been correctly linked to several carbon monoxide poisoning cases in several carbon monoxide poisoning cases recent years. This silent killer has claimed the lives of at least 19 people in the past decade, yet Airbnb still does not require the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in its rental properties.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is toxic to humans and animals. When inhaled, it can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and confusion. In high concentrations, it can lead to unconsciousness or even death. The gas is produced by fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, and stoves. If these appliances are not correctly installed, maintained, or ventilated, carbon monoxide can build up in enclosed spaces, such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
NBC News has identified 19 deaths committed since 2013 that occurred at Airbnb properties and are alleged to have involved carbon monoxide poisoning. These cases happened in countries where regulations regarding carbon monoxide detectors are inconsistent. The lack of a consistent standard makes it challenging for Airbnb to enforce compliance. However, family members and representatives of people who died said Airbnb has not done enough to address the situation and called for the company to commit to a mandate that carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every rental.
In February 2014, Airbnb committed to requiring hosts to confirm that carbon monoxide detectors were installed in every listing by the end of the year. However, nearly a decade later, the company has not made any such mandate. Instead, Airbnb has addressed carbon monoxide concerns primarily by encouraging hosts to install detectors. In 2014, it began offering one free carbon monoxide detector to hosts. The program has been running for nine years, but in June, the company said it had only distributed enough detectors to cover 2.3% of its 7 million active listings.
Airbnb listings display whether rental properties have carbon monoxide detectors or not. A listing that lacks detectors shows crossed-out text that says “Carbon monoxide alarm” at the bottom of the “What this place offers” section, among other features like “Kitchen,” “Wifi,” and “TV.” However, a 2018 study in Injury Prevention found that only 57.5% of U.S.-based Airbnb locations were listed as having carbon monoxide detectors.
Family members and representatives of people who died said Airbnb has not done enough to address the situation and called for the company to commit to a mandate that carbon monoxide detectors be installed in every rental. Jennifer Winders, whose father and stepmother died from carbon monoxide poisoning in an Airbnb in Mexico in November 2018, said that the company agreed to meet with her and her brother on potential safety improvements as part of a settlement that included financial compensation. However, Winders said they had one meeting in February 2022 with the company where they gave suggestions.
Jaime Mejia’s son, Sebastian Mejiaaffecting, died in an Airbnb in Brazil due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Sebastian had moved to Rio de Janeiro in October 2022 on a Fulbright scholarship to study Indigenous communities. His budget was tight, but he found an affordable Airbnb. On October 5, 2022, Sebastian was found dead in the shower of his Airbnb. A water heater in the bathroom leaked carbon monoxide, and the apartment had no detector to warn him. Carbon monoxide levels measured in the condo were four times the maximum acceptable levels, police said. Sebastian’s family believes that if the company required property owners to install carbon monoxide detectors, he might still be alive.
In recent years, carbon monoxide deaths have also occurred at hotels and other short-term rentals. As such, Andrea Vastis, senior director of public education at the National Fire Protection Association, said states ought to have codes and laws that compel companies such as Airbnb and VRBO to install carbon monoxide alarms. McNabb recommended travelers carry portable carbon monoxide detectors, which retail as low as $10.
In conclusion, carbon monoxide poisoning is a severe issue affecting anyone staying in an Airbnb or any short-term rental. Travelers should be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves, such as carrying a portable carbon monoxide detector. However, it is the responsibility of Airbnb and other companies to ensure the safety of their guests by mandating the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in all their rental properties. Until such action is taken, families will continue to lose their loved ones to this silent killer.
