Home Security Solutions Columnist
Not taking care with the placement of your carbon monoxide detectors can lull you into a false sense of security. A badly sited carbon monoxide detector can be just as fatal as not having a carbon monoxide detector in the first place.
You probably do not need reminding that the colorless, odorless gas called carbon monoxide is a silent and deadly killer. Making sure that all fuel-burning appliances are operating properly should always be your first move in your campaign for improved carbon monoxide safety. However, using carbon monoxide detectors and taking care with their placement can also play a part in the war against carbon monoxide poisoning.
Tips for Improving Carbon Monoxide Safety
Here are a few tips on the strategic placement of carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work hardest to protect you and your loved ones:- For maximum carbon monoxide safety, make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector installed on each floor of your home. At the very least, you should always fit a carbon monoxide detector in the hall or passageway outside bedrooms.
- Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are not situated in an area where there is high turnover of air (such as near a ceiling fan or fresh air vent), where carbon monoxide buildup could be concealed from a detector.
- When considering the best placement of your carbon monoxide detector, you should avoid placing detectors in pockets of 'dead-air' (such as in the corner of a room or behind curtains) where carbon monoxide may never reach the detector.
- Avoid placing carbon monoxide detectors where there are large fluctuations in temperature or humidity, such as in an attic or bathroom.
- Allow a minimum distance of 10 feet between your carbon monoxide detector and any fuel burning appliance.
