Carbon monoxide alarm going off? Do this now

Do this now

This order follows the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Kidde’s instructions begin with pressing the alarm’s Test/Reset button; either way, don’t delay getting to fresh air.

Afterwards

If the alarm sounds again within 24 hours of going back in, repeat the steps above, then have a qualified technician inspect your fuel-burning appliances, such as a furnace, water heater, range or fireplace. Don’t use an appliance you suspect until it has been serviced. Kidde also suggests checking whether a vehicle was running in an attached garage or next to the home.

Symptoms of CO poisoning

The CPSC describes low-to-moderate exposure as feeling like the flu without a fever: headache, tiredness, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Higher levels can cause confusion, vomiting, loss of muscle control, unconsciousness and death. If anyone has symptoms, get outside and get medical help, and tell them you suspect carbon monoxide.

Alarm or chirp?

On Kidde alarms, repeating sets of 4 beeps mean carbon monoxide has been detected. A single chirp with a pause is a trouble signal, often a low battery, and 2 chirps with a pause mean the alarm has reached the end of its life. Other brands differ, so check the label or manual on yours. If you’re unsure whether it’s an alarm or a chirp, treat it as an alarm.

Where CO alarms go

The CPSC recommends battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas, ideally interconnected. Mount them high on a wall or use a plug-in model, away from heating vents and anything that could block them. It doesn’t recommend placing them in kitchens or directly above fuel-burning appliances. The test button checks the circuit, not the sensor; follow the maker’s advice on when to replace the alarm.

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