24-9-2023 (TOKYO) The Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan issued a warning regarding the dangers of using dry ice for cooling purposes inside coffins during wake services. They reported three cases of carbon dioxide poisoning deaths believed to have been caused by dry ice in coffins between 2020 and 2021.
In these three cases, two of the individuals were found unconscious with their heads inside the coffins, while the third person was discovered collapsed near the coffin. The small viewing windows on the coffins, designed for people to pay their respects, were in the open position.
According to an analysis cited by Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK), these individuals were likely leaning into the coffin and speaking to the deceased person during a night watch, during which they succumbed to carbon dioxide poisoning.
In an experiment conducted by the National Center for Consumer Affairs in Japan, 10 kilograms of dry ice were placed inside a coffin, and the carbon dioxide concentration inside was measured. The results showed that after closing the coffin lid, the carbon dioxide concentration inside the coffin rapidly increased, exceeding 30% in just 20 minutes, a level believed to be sufficient to cause immediate loss of consciousness. After four hours, the carbon dioxide concentration inside the coffin rose to approximately 90%.
The Consumer Affairs Agency reminded the public to ensure proper ventilation when conducting night watches and urged against being alone to prevent such accidents.
