Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. Because you cannot see or smell it, carbon monoxide detectors are the only reliable way to know when dangerous levels are present.
Where to Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Proper placement is essential for early warning. Install carbon monoxide detectors in the following areas:
Outside sleeping areas - Place a detector in the hallway or common area just outside bedrooms so it can alert occupants while they are asleep.
On every level of the home - Install at least one CO detector on each floor of the home, including: basements, finished attics, and / or split-level areas
Near fuel burning appliances - Install detectors near-but not directly next to-appliances that burn fuel, such as furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces, attached garages. Keep detectors 10-20 feet away from these appliances to avoid nuisance alarms.
Best Height for Installation
Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide mixes evenly with air. Install detectors at knee height if placed in sleeping areas, follow manufacturer's instructions for wall or ceiling placement. When in doubt, follow the directions provided with the detector.
Where NOT to Install CO Detectors
Avoid installing detectors: inside kitchens, inside bathrooms, in garages, directly above or next to fuel-burning appliances, near windows or exterior doors or vents, in areas with excessive humidity or extreme temperatures.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide deprives the body of oxygen. Symptoms can vary based on exposure level and time exposed. Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and pets may show symptoms first. Pets acting strangely can be an early warning sign.
Early Symptoms
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Nausea
Moderate Symptoms
Confusion
Vomiting
Shortness of breath
Blurred vision
Severe Symptoms
Chest pain
loss of coordination
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Death
What to Do if Your CO Detector Goes Off
Do not ignore the alarm. Move outside immediately to fresh air. Get everyone out including pets. Call 911 from outside the home. Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders say it is safe.
What to Do if You Notice Symptoms
Get outside to fresh air immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care. Inform responders that you suspect carbon monoxide exposure. Even if symptoms improve outdoors, medical evaluation is important.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. Because you cannot see or smell it, carbon monoxide detectors are the only reliable way to know when dangerous levels are present.
Where to Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Proper placement is essential for early warning. Install carbon monoxide detectors in the following areas:
Outside sleeping areas - Place a detector in the hallway or common area just outside bedrooms so it can alert occupants while they are asleep.
On every level of the home - Install at least one CO detector on each floor of the home, including: basements, finished attics, and / or split-level areas
Near fuel burning appliances - Install detectors near-but not directly next to-appliances that burn fuel, such as furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces, attached garages. Keep detectors 10-20 feet away from these appliances to avoid nuisance alarms.
Best Height for Installation
Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide mixes evenly with air. Install detectors at knee height if placed in sleeping areas, follow manufacturer's instructions for wall or ceiling placement. When in doubt, follow the directions provided with the detector.
Where NOT to Install CO Detectors
Avoid installing detectors: inside kitchens, inside bathrooms, in garages, directly above or next to fuel-burning appliances, near windows or exterior doors or vents, in areas with excessive humidity or extreme temperatures.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide deprives the body of oxygen. Symptoms can vary based on exposure level and time exposed. Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and pets may show symptoms first. Pets acting strangely can be an early warning sign.
Early Symptoms
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Nausea
Moderate Symptoms
Confusion
Vomiting
Shortness of breath
Blurred vision
Severe Symptoms
Chest pain
loss of coordination
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Death
What to Do if Your CO Detector Goes Off
Do not ignore the alarm. Move outside immediately to fresh air. Get everyone out including pets. Call 911 from outside the home. Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders say it is safe.
What to Do if You Notice Symptoms
Get outside to fresh air immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care. Inform responders that you suspect carbon monoxide exposure. Even if symptoms improve outdoors, medical evaluation is important.