Problems posed by smoke:
(1) reduced oxygen
(2) toxic compounds, especially cyanide and carbon monoxide (see previous section)
(3) obscured vision
(4) panic and disorientation
The risk posed by smoke is greater if:
(1) the smoke is thick
(2) the escape route is difficult (unfamiliar, narrow, complex)
(3) the person has to exert while trying to escape
People at risk for hypoxia:
(1) moderate to severe anemia
(2) COPD or other lung disease with chronic hypoxemia
(3) atherosclerotic heart disease
Patients at increased risk from carbon monoxide or other toxins:
(1) alcohol intoxication
(2) sedatives
(3) person at risk for hypoxia (above)
Patients at risk with reduced vision:
(1) visual impairment
Patients at risk for panic and disorientation:
(1) panic disorder
(2) severe psychiatric disorder
(3) dementia
(4) taking a hallucinogen
