Carbon Monoxide Safety in the Home with First Alert

Thank you First Alert for sponsoring this post. Help ensure your home and family is protected with CO alarms!

I love having a nicely decorated home, but what gives me comfort and reassurance, is knowing that our home provides a safe environment for our three boys. My family knows how much I care about safety, but I have to admit that in working with First Alert for this post I learned some important things I didn’t previously know about Carbon Monoxide safety in the winter months. I’m going to keep this simple because I know that most of us don’t want to dwell on safety issues. Rather, I want to share the important steps needed to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless and deadly gas that can be produced by any fuel-burning device, such as a stove, fireplace, water heater, or car. CO poisonings are a risk in the wintertime because of the increased need for indoor heating. When these fuel-burning devices or their ventilation systems are not working properly, or if outdoor equipment is used in an enclosed area, toxic levels of CO can build up. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can be life-threatening if inhaled. And the only way to detect this poisonous gas is to install carbon monoxide alarms.

First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detector

The First Alert 10-year sealed battery carbon monoxide alarm can detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. I love that this CO alarm is designed to sit on top of a dresser or tabletop, does not require any installation, and does not require battery replacement for 10 years. When the detector is functioning properly and CO is not detected, all you see is the air temperature display. If CO is detected, peak levels of CO will be displayed and the CO alarm will sound. You can test the detector by pressing the test button so that you and your family will know what a CO alarm sounds like. After 10 years, you will hear an end of life warning, letting you know it is time to replace your alarm. Simply place your alarm on a tabletop and start protecting your home and family from CO.

What to do if your CO Alarm Sounds

First Alert CO detectors will monitor your air for the first signs of CO and will sound a loud alarm right away. If your alarm goes off, head outside and dial 911. Do not return to your home until the source of CO buildup has been removed, your home properly ventilated, and the air quality deemed to be safe.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips in the Home

• Place battery-operated or battery back-up carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and in each bedroom
• Do a few test runs with the alarm and make sure that all family members know what to do if the alarm sounds (go outside and call 911)
• Have all fuel-based appliances and equipment installed and repaired by a qualified technician
• Have all fuel-based appliances and equipment serviced annually by a qualified professional
• Use fuel-based appliances and materials according to their directions
• Do not use generators or portable flameless chemical heaters indoors
• Ensure that chimneys are inspected and cleaned annually by a professional
• Never run a car or truck inside an attached garage (even with the garage door open)

You can visit First Alert here and here for additional information on safety tips.

Remember, carbon monoxide is odourless, colourless and tasteless and the only way to detect this poisonous gas is to install carbon monoxide alarms on every level and in every bedroom of your home. Help protect your home and family with carbon monoxide alarms this winter.