Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

    Carbon Monoxide Detectors – At minimum, place one carbon monoxide alarm near all sleeping areas.  For the next level of protection, install one additional alarm on each level of the home.  Put some alarms on or near the ceiling.  Others can be plugged into electrical outlets.  Do not install CO alarms within 15 feet of heating or cooking appliances, or in very damp areas such as bathrooms.

    Respond correctly – If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, do not panic.
    First, find out if anyone is feeling sick.  Early symptoms of CO exposure are headache, sleepiness, nausea, and dizziness.  If anyone has symptoms, leave the house immediately.  Use a neighbor’s phone to call the fire department.
    If no one feels ill, you probably do not need to call the fire department.  Turn off any fuel-burning appliances.  Open windows for ventilation, and rest the alarm.  If the alarm sounds again or cannot be reset, have a heating and ventilation professional inspect your home as soon as possible.  If anyone begins to show signs of CO poisoning, evacuate and call the fire department.