Why You Need A Carbon Monoxide Detector In Your Home

The importance of having a carbon monoxide detector is often underestimated or simply forgotten by many homeowners. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide sources, such as furnaces, generators, and gas heaters, are common in homes and can put your family at risk for carbon monoxide poisonings.

Carbon monoxide (also called CO) is a poisonous gas that you cannot see, smell or taste.  It is often referred to as the 'silent killer'.  CO is produced by the incomplete burning of fuels such as natural gas, propane, heating oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal or wood. Improperly installed or poorly maintained appliances that run on these fuels may create unsafe levels of CO.  In enclosed spaces such as your home, cottage or recreational vehicle, even a small amount of CO is dangerous.

You should definitely have a carbon monoxide detector in your home if you have any appliances that are not electric and that burn natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood, coal, or other fuels, or if you have a home with an attached garage. At least one CO detector should be installed adjacent to the sleeping area of your home.  You may need more than one CO detector if sleeping areas are located on different levels of your home.  CO detectors should not be installed beside smoke detectors or near any fuel-burning appliances. Many municipalities have passed local bylaws that require all homes to have at least one carbon monoxide detector.

HOW TO PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Install a battery operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.
• If your CO detector sounds, evacuate your home immediately and telephone 911.
• Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseated.
• Do not use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.
• Do not run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• Do not burn anything in a stove or fireplace that is not vented.
• Do not heat your house with a gas oven.