A shocking incident in China’s Jilin province has underscored the grave dangers of inhaling butane gas. An 18-year-old teenager, identified as Xiao Zheng (a pseudonym), became addicted to inhaling butane from cigarette lighters with friends. Under the influence of intense hallucinations, he attempted to light a cigarette, triggering a massive explosion that left three people injured and caused extensive damage to their accommodation.
According to a report by CCTV News, Xiao Zheng recounted how he joined his friends in inhaling butane gas from multiple lighter canisters, wanting to fit in with the group. He described the hallucinogenic effects as a feeling of carefree euphoria, where time seemed to pass rapidly and worries disappeared. However, the hallucinations intensified until everything appeared distorted, with objects taking on shapes resembling the globe.
Explosion Devastates Hotel, Teen Sustains Third-Degree Burns
Tragically, as the group continued inhaling, someone struck a match for a cigarette. On the third attempt, the match ignited the butane-saturated air, causing an immediate explosion. The blast was so powerful it blew apart the second floor of the hotel and damaged parts of the ground floor. Xiao Zheng suffered the most severe injuries, with third-degree burns covering much of his body. Although his life was saved, he now bears permanent scars and his fingers can never fully extend again.
Stone Kai, a burns specialist at the local hospital, explained that butane is a colourless, highly flammable and explosive gas commonly used as lighter fuel. While it might seem harmless, inhaling butane induces powerful hallucinations and addiction, dramatically increasing the risk of deadly accidents like explosions.
Doctors Warn of Severe Risks and Lasting Damage
Dr Stone revealed the hospital frequently treats patients aged 16 to 19 for butane-related injuries, with boys making up around 80% of cases. Many victims suffer burns covering over 50% of their bodies, with some exceeding 90%, pushing the mortality rate beyond 10%. He added, “Inhaling three to four butane canisters is equivalent to using enough gas to cook a dish – it’s extremely dangerous.”
Another physician, Dr Xue Yan, warned that explosive inhalation injuries can cause irreversible damage to the airways. The resulting burns can strip and kill airway linings, leading to swelling, mucus buildup, and potentially fatal airway obstruction even before the patient reaches hospital. The doctors urged the public to stay away from butane inhalation, stressing the devastating and often lethal consequences of this growing trend among teenagers.