Between 2020 and 2023, rising global temperatures and extreme weather events have significantly increased fire incidents, releasing toxic smoke containing lethal cyanide gas. Cyanide disrupts cellular respiration and poses severe risks to victims and first responders. This study quantifies cyanide concentrations in fire smoke and evaluates the antidotal efficacy of hydroxocobalamin. Using a smoke chamber calibrated to 100 ppm cyanide, treated mice demonstrated a 70% survival rate compared to 30% in controls, with median survival times of 12 and 5 minutes, respectively (p < 0.05). Employing UPLC-MS and colorimetric analysis, cyanide levels were precisely measured. Furthermore, aerosolized hydroxocobalamin proved effective for rapid absorption. These findings highlight advanced antidotal strategies as pivotal in enhancing survival and shaping fire smoke safety protocols.
Jia-Long Chen (Wed,) studied this question.