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What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, deadly gas.
Because one cannot smell, see, or taste it, carbon monoxide
can kill you before you know it is there.
Where does carbon monoxide occur?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of a fuel burning. Carbon monoxide
can be emitted by gas or oil furnaces, clothes dryers, water
heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, gas ranges, space heaters.
Improper venting or a clogged chimney can also cause problems.
Who is at risk?
Everyone! CO effects individuals differently depending on
their size and medical history. Families with young children
or members with medical conditions should take extra precautions
in the event that CO is detected.
Where do I place my carbon monoxide detector and
what kind do I look for?
Place a carbon monoxide detector near the sleeping area. A
second detector should be located near the heating appliance.
When purchasing a carbon monoxide detector look for the UL
seal. Different types give a visual number that lets you know
the exact level of CO in your home. At least one CO detector
should be battery powered, and remeber to change your batteries
regularly.
My detector has a number in the display panel, how
do I know ifmy family is safe?
If Less than 10 PPM then this an Acceptable limit.
If MORE than 10 or more PPM then a potentially deadly level
of CO exists.
Leave the building immediately.
Call 9-1-1
What do I do when my CO detector goes into alarm?
Call 9-1-1 or your local fire department.
Should I open my windows if my detector alarms?
No, if your detector alarms then you need to get out of the
structure. Call 9-1-1 and let the fire department investigate.
How do you know if you have CO poisoning?
Symptoms are vague and can mimic the flu. Headaches that allevate
when exiting the home is a good indicator. There are no direct
symptoms linking to CO poisoning.
Is it possible for CO detectors to have many false
alarms?
When CO detectors were first introduced they were adequate
but easily alarmed in constant low level areas. Today's detectors
are very good and some even have digital displays showing
the PPM, which is very accurate.
What detectors do we recommend?
Many independent agencies have tested and compiled lists of
all different makes and models of carbon monoxide detectors.
Check to find the best performers and make sure the testing
agency is also a qualified, reputable, and non-biased facility.These
lists can easily be found on the internet by doing a simple
search.
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