Why You Must Buy a Carbon Monoxide Detector For Your Home

Posted by aprilkerr

April 2, 2008

It’s very true what they say about carbon monoxide; it’s the “silent killer.” It may shock you to learn that in the U.S. alone, approximately 2,000 die each year from carbon monoxide (CO). What makes this figure even more shocking is that these deaths could probably have been prevented as long as a monoxide detector had been fitted in their homes.

Do you have any idea what it is? Do you know how to protect your family from it? The best place to start is by learning about what carbon monoxide is and how you can lower your chances of falling victim. Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector alarm fitted as so many lives could be saved.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas which is released into the air when fuels aren’t burnt completely. This can occur when appliances in the home don’t burn the fuels properly. The reason so many people die from this gas is because it is tasteless, odourless and colorless.

Many types of fuel can cause CO to be released into your household including propane, gasoline, natural gas, coal, wood and oil. The appliances most at risk of releasing this gas include, gas stoves, water heaters and furnaces.

What is the Best Way to Protect Your Family from CO Poisoning?

Although understanding what carbon monoxide is and where it comes from is important, as I said before, you can’t taste it, smell it or see it. So if it is released into your home, you won’t know it’s there.

First of all you should make sure that all the appliances in your home are fitted by professionals and regular checks and repairs are made. Other than that, buying a carbon monoxide alarm is the best way to detect and alert you to this deadly gas.

The alarm is constantly monitoring levels of CO in the home and when the gas is detected, an alarm will sound to warn you. Unlike smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors never sound a false alarm. This is because there are no other chemicals which can be mistaken.

If you haven’t already bought a CO alarm, I’m sure you’ll be keen to go out and buy one. When doing so make sure that it’s been approved by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). You should also be aware that there are different options to choose from, some include a batter backup, smoke detector and home security integration.

It’s easy to think “oh, it won’t happen to me,” and that it’s not too important to buy a carbon monoxide detector alarm but the truth is that it does happen and it could happen to you. You never know when it may save you and your family’s lives.

April Kerr often writes articles about home and garden related topics on website http://www.finerliving.net/

Home Security