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The Benefits of CO Detectors

Posted: 17.11.2008 | Views: 107

A carbon monoxide or CO detector is a device that alerts you to the presence of the toxic gas in the environment. A carbon monoxide detector will give you advanced warning before CO gases reach a dangerous level. Being exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide for several hours can be just as dangerous as exposure to high carbon monoxide level for just a few minutes. In order to detect the presence of this gas early, proper placement of carbon monoxide detectors is important.

A carbon monoxide detector will alert you to excess poison in the air. It will allow you to quickly clear your home of people and pets. A carbon monoxide detector alerts in the same way that a smoke alarm notifies you of the possibility of a fire. This gives you the opportunity to exit the premises before being overcome by the deadly gas.

So how exactly do you select the right carbon monoxide detector for your home? It is best to choose a carbon monoxide detector that has a low level indicator. This way it will be more sensitive to any rise in carbon monoxide gas in your home even if it is only a slight increase. This is the best way to prevent any slight carbon monoxide poisoning from occurring in your home.

Once you have purchased a carbon monoxide detector the next important step is installing it in the right location. If you are only going to have one carbon monoxide detector in your home then it is recommended that you place it near the sleeping area so that it can wake you up if carbon monoxide gas develops while you are sleeping. For extra protection it is a good idea to have additional carbon monoxide detectors located on each level of your home and in every bedroom.

You never want to place a carbon monoxide detector within at least fifteen feet of a heating or cooking appliance or in a humid area such as the bathroom. The safest place to mount a carbon monoxide detector is the ceiling. This keeps the detector away from any possible interference and also allows it to function properly.

When it comes to installing the actual unit you should carefully follow the manufacturers instructions. Make sure the carbon monoxide detector is not covered by any furniture or draperies. By getting a battery operated detector you will have an easier time installing them since you can place them anywhere in the house that you need protection. If you have the electric type then you will need to have them hard wired into your electrical system by a professional or you will need to install them near an electrical outlet.

Should your carbon monoxide detector sound there are a few things you should do without delay. First evacuate everyone from the house and contact fire service personnel. Second, anyone who is experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning should be taken to a doctor immediately. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness or vomiting. Until medical professionals arrive keep these individuals in a location with fresh air. Don’t re-enter your home until it has been cleaned and the problem fixed.

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