Carbon monoxide, commonly known as the chemical formula CO, is an extremely poisonous gas. It has no odour or colour, which means we are unable to detect it through our senses. It is estimated that CO poisoning is responsible for more than 200 cases of poisoning in the UK, and around 40 deaths. The carbon monoxide alarm going off could mean the gas is present in your home or office, or simply indicating the battery or alarm needs replacing.

The deadly gas is a product of partial combustion of carbon-based compounds where there is not enough oxygen to create carbon dioxide (CO2). It can be found in modern homes near fuel-burning devices: gas heaters, boilers, gas cooking stoves, or power generators.

It can also be produced by motor vehicles and other devices with internal combustion engines. Because of this, carbon monoxide can quickly build up in your home, especially if there is a lack of ventilation. The simplest way to protect yourself and your family is by installing carbon monoxide detectors.

In order to prevent any errors, follow this guide of general advice.

Where Should You Place CO Detectors?

If you live in a home with several stories, then you will need CO detectors on each level. The reason behind this is that CO gas is often trapped within a single level of your home, so that while parts will be completely safe, others may not.

You must place CO detectors near bedrooms, so that you can wake up and evacuate quickly.

You must also set up a CO detector near any potential source of CO, such as garages; where if a vehicle is left running, it can produce enough CO to fill up a room.

If you want to place it in the kitchen where gas is used, place it at least 15 feet away from the source. Avoid placing in rooms where levels of humidity are too high, such as bathrooms, or near heat sources.

What Is The Preferred Height A CO Alarm Should Be Placed At?

There are a couple of suggestions about where to place CO detectors. As the alarm is light, it should be placed above window level, but not on the ceiling itself, unlike smoke alarms. This is because the hot air might prevent CO from reaching it.

You can also place the alarm at your eye-level, which will allow you to access it easily for monthly tests.

CO Alarm Maintenance

Like any other alarming device, it should be tested at least once a month with an inbuilt test button. This is done to check for any faults that may occur in the hardware of the device, or to see if the batteries need replacing.

If you recently bought a CO detecting device, make sure to test it in order to recognise the sound it produces. A low battery warning will make a chirping sound (one short beep every 2 minutes).

Don’t just wait for the sound to stop as this will mean the battery is dead and your alarm has stopped functioning. Change the battery immediately. If you are not sure how to do this, see the instructions or contact the manufacturer.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Going Off?

If your alarm is making a loud sustained beeping sound then this indicates it has detected carbon monoxide.

First of all, remain calm, as your composure is essential for securing both your health and the health of your family. Turn off appliances that could be the source of carbon monoxide, open all doors and windows and evacuate the building. Call a licensed technician to check your appliances for any leaks, and do not turn on any appliances until you are sure it is safe to do so.

If you are feeling unwell, and you have symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, make sure to call emergency medical services immediately, and try to find some fresh air.

Some light poisoning can include confusion, and some mental impairment, while more serious cases include chest pain and loss of consciousness.

This poisoning occurs when instead of oxygen, carbon monoxide is tied to the haemoglobin in our lungs preventing oxygen from entering your bloodstream. CO poisoning is especially deadly for pregnant women and their unborn babies, small children, and the elderly. The common treatment includes breathing pure oxygen through special masks, or being placed in hyperbaric chamber.

In Short

Any damage done to your health by carbon monoxide can easily be prevented.

Make sure you invest in carbon monoxide detectors and place them correctly. Frequently check to see that they are working properly and replace batteries if necessary.

Keep your gas appliances maintained, and make sure to properly vent all the rooms where those appliances are used.

In the case of emergency, open all the doors and windows, and evacuate outside. Wait for a licensed technician to check all the appliances that could be faulty. Only enter the home again when you are 100 % sure it is safe to do so.

You should never ignore an alarm if you hear it, as it is better to be safe than sorry.