Carbon Monoxide Safety: Protect Your Family from the Invisible Threat

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas. Because it cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, the only reliable way to detect it in your home is with a working carbon monoxide alarm. Early detection saves lives.

What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels—such as natural gas, wood, propane, oil, charcoal, or gasoline—burn incompletely. Common household sources include:

• Furnaces and water heaters

• Fireplaces and wood stoves

• Gas stoves and ovens

• Portable generators

• Cars left running in attached garages

When carbon monoxide builds up indoors, it can quickly lead to:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Nausea and vomiting

• Confusion or fainting

• Death in minutes at high levels

Why You Need Carbon Monoxide Alarms

1. CO Is Impossible to Detect Without an Alarm
CO has no odor or visible signs. Victims are often unaware they’re in danger until symptoms become severe or fatal.

2. Early Warning Saves Lives
A CO alarm alerts you before levels become dangerous, giving you time to evacuate and call for help.

3. CO Can Build Up Year-Round
Although more common in winter due to heating, CO incidents can occur any time of year from running vehicles, gas appliances, or generators.

Where to Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms

To ensure complete protection, install CO alarms:

• On every level of your home

• Outside each sleeping area

• Inside bedrooms (especially if doors are closed while sleeping)

• Near but not inside attached garages

• At least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances

Combination smoke/CO alarms are acceptable when installed according to manufacturer guidelines.

Maintenance and Safety Tips

1. Test Monthly
Press the test button to ensure the alarm is functioning.

2. Replace Batteries as Needed
If your alarm chirps, replace the battery immediately (unless it’s a 10-year sealed unit).

3. Replace the Entire Unit Every 7–10 Years
Check the manufacturer’s label for the expiration date.

4. Keep Alarms Clean
Lightly vacuum or dust around the unit to prevent interference with the sensors.

5. Never Ignore a CO Alarm
If it sounds:

• Leave the building immediately and go into fresh air.

• Call 911 from a safe location.

• Do not re-enter the home until it is declared safe by emergency personnel.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Buildup

• Have all fuel-burning heating systems and chimneys professionally inspected every year.

• Never operate grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors or near windows and vents.

• Never warm up a vehicle in an attached garage, even with the door open.

• Ensure all gas appliances are properly vented and maintained.

Don’t Take Chances with Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer—but it is preventable. Installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms gives your family critical protection and peace of mind.