Tragic Danger Posed By Home Air Conditioning System

Rest in peace Kristal Salcido

Who would ever imagine that your home air conditioning system could be a danger to children or teens in your neighborhood?

The heartbreaking death of 12 year old Victorville girl, Kristal Salcido today, is the latest tragedy resulting from the practice of breathing freon. It is called "huffing" or "bagging".  Children and teenagers looking for a quick easy high open the air conditioner line and inhale the refrigerant.

Kristal inhaled the chemical, later passing out in her grandma’s bathroom. She was pronounced brain-dead at a local hospital. Her family says there were never warning signs of Kristal’s dangerous behavior which is not surprising, children honestly don't realize how dangerous this is.

Huffing freon prevents the body from getting oxygen. It is a dangerous EPA controlled substance.  The chemicals irritate the mouth, throat and lungs. A person can get frostbite through any of the tissues in the nose, the mouth, the face. Huffing Freon, even one time, can cause brain damage including memory loss and behavioral problems or even worse. Kids don't realize what they are risking.

But how easy is it for teens to get to that dangerous freon? Access to the refrigerant is similar to a tire access. You just unscrew the cap, press the button and let the refrigerant out.

There are refrigerant locks available and most HVAC service companies will gladly install them on your system. If teens or children have access to your equipment you may want to buy a little peace of mind. Before your next scheduled maintenance of your heating and air conditioning system ask for a freon lock. It is typically about a $40 extra.