Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide
If your Carbon Monoxide detector sounds an ALARM:
  • Immediately call 911
  • Notify the 911 dispatcher if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms
  • Evacuate everyone from the building
  • For more information on Carbon Monoxide visit the National Safety Council's website on Carbon Monoxide poisoning
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide is an odorless colorless gas that kills. The only way to detect the presence of CO is with a CO detector. Check the batteries in your detector and check it’s age. If the detector is more than 7 years old consider replacing it – see manufacturers recommendations.  

Carbon Monoxide is the result of incomplete combustion and may come from a variety of sources including fire places, stoves or furnaces. Have your furnace serviced annually to ensure that it is burning clean and that exhaust is properly vented. If you burn wood in a stove or fire place leave the flu open until all the ashes are cold. If not properly vented, warm embers can produce enough carbon monoxide to create a dangerous condition.  

Cars idling in or near the garage have been known to cause toxic CO levels in homes. Don’t warm up your car by running it near the house.

Know the difference between your detectors alarm signal and a low battery signal (usually a periodic chirp). Replace low batteries immediately. Carbon Monoxide poisoning often comes with flu-like symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness). If you suddenly experience these symptoms or if multiple people in your home exhibit these symptoms consider the possibility of a CO problem. 
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