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.
