With all of that said– The best offense is a good defense — buy a carbon monoxide detector ! ATP Alarms emphasizes the importance of having a carbon monoxide detector. In many instances, home owners already have detectors installed or placed in their homes. In fact, it is now code to have hardwired carbon monoxide detectors on every floor . Some people believe having a detector next to the furnace. This is not sufficient because the heat from the furnace circulates through every vent in your home and therefore goes to each floor.

Winter months have the most Carbon Monoxide leaks . This is a result of gas heat being used with more frequency. However, if you have any gas appliances in your home, such as a gas stove, there is a constant risk of a CO leak.

If your carbon monoxide detector goes off , you should follow these guidelines :

1. Do not assume that it is a faulty battery or a dirty filter (all CO and smoke detectors have filters and should be vacuumed or sprayed with compressed air frequently).
2. Immediately gather everyone in the home and proceed outside (do not open any windows)
3. Call the fire department . It is important that you do not open any windows if you evacuate the home. This allows the fire department to actually test for the presence of CO. If you open every window and door, it is possible fresh air will fill the house thus preventing the fire department to correct the leak.

Carbon Monoxide is dangerous and it should be treated as such. There have been several instances of leaks this winter. Please be proactive and go purchase a CO detector or even better—purchase on from ATP Alarms . We offer both wireless and hardwired carbon monoxide detectors . By installing a CO detector, your monthly monitoring will not change .

As always, if you have any questions regarding home security, please give ATP Alarms a call today.

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