Carbon Monoxide Detectors

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America!!

Carbon monoxide is present in low levels in the air. In the home, it is formed from incomplete combustion from any flame-fueled device, including ranges, ovens, clothes dryers, furnaces, fireplaces, grills, space heaters, vehicles, and water heaters.

Furnaces and water heaters can be sources of carbon monoxide, but if they are vented properly the carbon monoxide will escape to the outside. Open flames, such as from ovens and ranges, are the most common source of carbon monoxide. Vehicles are the most common cause of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Purchasing a carbon monoxide detector allows a sense of security, however it's imperative to properly mount the detector on each floor of your home. Be aware that the average life span of many carbon monoxide detectors is about 2 years.

When placing carbon monoxide detectors in your home remember this:

• Never place the detector in a kitchen or bathroom

• Not less than 6-7 inches from the ceiling

• Do not place next to a window that opens

• Do not place over an appliance 

next page