Four Finnish conscripts received hospital treatment after a tent filled with smoke during military exercises. The incident occurred Tuesday evening at the Air Force Academy training grounds in Lohtaja, Western Finland.
Eight conscripts were sleeping in a tent when they noticed smoke building up inside. They immediately evacuated the temporary shelter. Military officials identified the cause as a plastic lighter left on top of a tent stove.
The melting lighter produced toxic fumes that caused mild carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms in several soldiers. Four conscripts required transportation to Central Ostrobothnia Central Hospital for further examination as a precaution.
All four soldiers returned to the Lohtaja training area later that same night in good condition. The Air Force Academy confirmed that all conscripts receive safety training about proper stove use before overnight tent exercises.
This incident highlights the practical risks of field training, even with established safety protocols. The quick response prevented more serious consequences, but the episode serves as a reminder that basic equipment mishaps can still occur during military exercises.
Finland maintains mandatory military service for all male citizens, with conscripts typically serving between 165 and 347 days. The Air Force Academy in Lohtaja trains personnel for Finland's aerial defense operations.