In fact, many state leaders have recognized the importance of having a working carbon monoxide alarm. Currently, 24 states require CO alarms in certain residences. In addition, families can take these simple steps to reduce the chance of having a CO incident:

• Install a carbon monoxide alarm outside every sleeping area and on every level of your home.

• Place CO alarms at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances to reduce nuisance alarms.

• Test alarms each month and replace them every seven years.

• Have all gas-, oil- or coal-burning appliances inspected by a technician every year to ensure they are working properly.

• Never use a stove to heat your home.

• Do not use a grill, generator or camping stove inside your home or garage or near a window.

• Never leave a car, SUV or motorcycle engine running inside a garage, even if the garage door is open.

For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning as well as other home safety tips, visit www.safekids.org.

Get Started With a Checklist

1. Smoke detector alarms are a must-have in your home

* Set a reminder on your cell phone, email calendar so you don’t forget to check regularly that they are in good working order!

2. Practice your fire escape regularly

* Most family’s do not even have a plan, please make one today

3. Place space heaters away from flammable materials

4. Keep matches and lighters away from your child

* Have a zero tolerance rule for older children, this must have a stern consequence

5. Teach and Practice the “stop, drop and roll”

* Children love to practice this one so make it fun!

6. Take care of your cooking habits in the kitchen

* Know how to put out grease fires, kitchen fires can spread very, very quickly

7. Have approved fire extinguishers in your home and make sure everyone who is old enough knows how to use them – Practice this