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Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Tips

Carbon monoxide poisoning typically occurs from breathing in carbon monoxide at excessive levels. Symptoms are often described as "flu-like" and commonly include headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Large exposures can result in loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Carbon monoxide poisoning typically occurs from breathing in carbon monoxide at excessive levels. Symptoms are often described as "flu-like" and commonly include headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Large exposures can result in loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

CO Safety Tips

  • CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height. In general a CO alarm will be placed at head height ( or on the ceiling if near the heat producing appliance i.e. boiler)
  • As with smoke alarms Test CO alarms at least once a week and replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • If the CO alarm sounds, open all windows and door, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel declare that it is safe to re-enter the home.
  • If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Do not run a vehicle or other fuelled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open.
  • Gas or charcoal bbq’s can produce CO — only use outside.