Winter Home Safety Tip – Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As part of regular home preparations, check boiler and dryer exhaust vents to keep them clear of leaves, debris or snow to prevent blockage. Also check batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Many manufacturers recommend installing new batteries every six months. Carbon Monoxide is a lethal gas that is odorless, colorless and tasteless, producing flu-like symptoms.

Known as Nicole’s Law which became effective March 31, 2006; all Massachusetts single and multi-family homes that incorporate fossil-fuel burning devices and/or incorporate parking within the structure near living areas must be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms. This applies to fossil-fuel burning devices such as natural gas, propane or oil furnaces and water heaters; fireplaces, pellet or wood stoves, gas or propane ranges. Check homeowner insurance which may also require compliance.

There are many types of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors such a battery operated and hard wired or both. Most hardware stores and even pharmacy chain stores carry these detectors. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions for where to place the detectors as well as check with your local fire department and consult your state website for any mandates that apply to your specific building type and any local building code regulations.

In addition, Massachusetts and several other states require the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms by homeowners, certified with a site visit inspection by the local fire department, prior to the sale of property. These types of laws protect the public from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and they help save lives.

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