KnowCO Links
Risks Inside the House | Where to Put Your Detectors | In Case of a CO Emergency
Many regions of the house have potential CO dangers, as illustrated in the graphic below.
The Basement: A corroded or disconnected water heater vent pipe, cracked heat exchanger, leaking pipe to the chimney, or problems with the furnace make the basement an area ripe with potential CO sources. Because of that, it is a very good idea to install a CO detector down in the basement for maximum protection. PLACE A DETECTOR THERE.
The Bedroom/Second Floor: It is a good idea to install a CO detector near the sleeping areas or on every floor so that you or your family will be warned in the event of a CO emergency. PLACE A DETECTOR THERE.
The chimney/fireplace: The chimney can be a potential source of carbon monoxide if it is in poor condition. A blocked chimney opening, or a chimney clogged with leaves, soot, snow, or other materials can become a CO hazard, especially if your fireplace is a natural gas fireplace or burns natural wood.
The garage: The garage will not become a carbon monoxide hazard unless you make it that way. Remember, NEVER idle a car or any other vehicle in the garage, NEVER operate and/or start any vehicle or machine that runs on gasoline or kerosene, and NEVER use a barbecue that burns off gasoline or kerosene indoors.
The kitchen/main floor: The kitchen and/or main floor may pose some CO hazards. An improperly installed kitchen range or cooktop may give off carbon monoxide, as will a gas-powered refrigerator. A gas-operated clothes dryer may also be a source of deadly CO. It is a very good idea to place a CO detector on that main floor, because of its heavy traffic and amount of potential hazards. PLACE A DETECTOR THERE.
Where should I put my CO detectors?
As mentioned above, you should place a UL Listed Carbon Monoxide Detectors near the sleeping area, another near the sleeping area, and another in the furnace room and/or basement. The detector should be placed 6 feet high on a wall and 15 feet away from any fuel-burning source.
In case of a CO emergency, you should follow the following steps:
Get everyone outside, immediately!
Don't stay inside the house to call your Fire Department, 911, or local utility company; call them from somewhere else!
Get medical attention immediately if you or anyone in your dwelling are feeling symptoms of CO poisoning. SECONDS COUNT!
Don't go back inside the dwelling until a safety official says it is OK!
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