There was a risk of death

Poison Gas Warning Intended to Deter Churchgoers

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23.08.2026 14:00

The church in Mösendorf (Upper Austria) was closed to the public for four days. Deterrent banners successfully kept potential visitors at a distance. Entering would have been dangerous.

A skull and crossbones on a yellow warning triangle was displayed on a banner at the entrance gate of the Mösendorf parish church (municipality of Vöcklamarkt). “Highly toxic gases!”, “Danger to life!”, “No entry!” were additional warnings displayed in German and English.

Red-and-white barrier tape wrapped around the door wings further emphasized that entering the church was strongly discouraged. “Fumigated with: sulfuryl fluoride, Vikane, Profume,” read another warning.

The Catholic branch church in Mösendorf (municipality of Vöcklamarkt).
The Catholic branch church in Mösendorf (municipality of Vöcklamarkt).(Bild: FOTOKERSCHI / MATTHIAS KALTENLEITNER)

Concerned travelers contacted the “Krone” this week. Fortunately, a follow-up inquiry with the Diocese of Linz quickly shed light on the matter. As suspected, the church had a worm problem—specifically, woodworms. To preserve the art and cultural artifacts stored there for future generations, action was apparently necessary, and restoration measures had to be taken.

Barrier tape and warning signs at the church entrance.
Barrier tape and warning signs at the church entrance.(Bild: FOTOKERSCHI / MATTHIAS KALTENLEITNER)

“In cases like this, we first seal all doors and windows, then introduce gas,” explains Michael Kraml of the Diocese. The result: the woodworms and their larvae die off, and after a few days, the church can be entered again. Kraml: “Two years ago, we did the same thing at the City Parish Church in Linz; we received inquiries back then as well.” 

This article has been automatically translated,
read the original article here.

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