Protect your family from a silent killer.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas. It is also very deadly. It is undetectable by human means so you need to take steps to protect yourself and your family.
About Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is produced by a number of common household sources, including wood or gas fireplaces, gas or oil furnaces, wood stoves, gas appliances, a clogged chimney or improper venting in a garage. Today's energy-efficient, airtight homes contribute to the problem by decreasing the exchange of inside and outside air. The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning increases in the evenings when the house is closed and you are asleep.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning mimic those of the flu, so you might not realize you are being poisoned until damage has been done. Carbon monoxide detectors tell you when the level of the gas in the air has become dangerous.
Choosing a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Local codes may specify requirements for carbon monoxide detectors and their placement. Make sure you're familiar with local codes.
Look for a carbon monoxide detector with sensors that record the levels of the gas in the air as that information can help determine the source of the problem.
Like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors can be battery-operated or hard-wired. Various models come with test buttons, silence buttons, visual indicators of the alarm and features to let you know when the battery needs to be replaced. A battery-operated detector or a plug-in detector with battery backup helps ensure that the unit works even in the case of a power outage. An "End of Life" warning feature tells you when the unit itself needs to be replaced.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and any local codes when installing a carbon monoxide detector. Place detectors near each sleeping area. Do not place them directly above a fuel burning appliance.
Your best means of preventing carbon monoxide poisoning is to keep all utilities and appliances maintained. Make sure that your home has the proper safety equipment and that your family knows how to use it.
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