I can check existing CO detectors, replace batteries if needed, or install new detectors and make sure they are placed in the correct location.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
It's called the silent killer - carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless
Unlike fire and burglary, carbon monoxide can be an invisible, almost undetectable threat to your family and home.
If you live in a home with gas logs, hot tub, or other gas-enabled appliances or have an attached garage — you need to be aware of this threat.
Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless and causes symptoms — fatigue, nausea, headache, dizziness — that may be confused with flu or other symptoms. If you think you may be exposed to carbon monoxide call 911 immediately.
Every year, more than 200 Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning and another 5,000 need hospital treatment. The very young and old, pregnant women, unborn babies, and people with heart and respiratory problems are especially vulnerable.
Here are some helpful tips to safeguard your family and home from this harmful gas.
• Any fuel-burning appliance can emit carbon monoxide gas, so be sure such appliances are vented directly to the outside and keep fresh air circulating in your home.
• Have your heating system checked for carbon monoxide emissions before the heating season begins.
• Check your kitchen range, fireplaces and water heater for carbon monoxide emissions periodically.
• If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected every year, crack a window or door slightly to allow proper airflow, and keep the damper open until the fire is completely out.
• Never run your car engine for more than a few moments in a garage or other enclosed area, even if the door is open.
If more than one person expierences the symptoms (fatigue, nausea, headache, dizziness) at the same time, call 911 and get to fresh air until help arrives.
Do not ever feel embarrased about calling 911.
Carbon monoxide detectors are available and inexpensive. Placement and maintenance are important to assure the detector functions properly.
Proper placement of a carbon monoxide detector is important. If you are installing only one carbon monoxide detector, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends it be located near the sleeping area, where it can wake you if you are asleep. Additional detectors on every level and in every bedroom of a home provides extra protection.
Homeowners should remember not to install carbon monoxide detectors directly above or beside fuel-burning appliances, as appliances may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide upon start-up. A detector should not be placed within fifteen feet of heating or cooking appliances or in or near very humid areas such as bathrooms.
When considering where to place a carbon monoxide detector, keep in mind that although carbon monoxide is roughly the same weight as air (carbon monoxide's specific gravity is 0.9657, as stated by the EPA; the National Resource Council lists the specific gravity of air as one), it may be contained in warm air coming from combustion appliances such as home heating equipment. If this is the case, carbon monoxide will rise with the warmer air.