NFPA Public Education Division • 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169
Your Source for SAFETY Information
www.nfpa.org/education
CO ALARMS
KKK CO alarms should be installed outside each sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the
home. It is best to use interconnected alarms. When one sounds, all CO alarms in the home
sound.
KKK Follow the instructions on the package to properly install the CO alarm.
KKK Test CO alarms at least once a month.
KKK Replace CO alarms according to the instructions on the package.
KKK Know the sounds the CO alarm makes. It will sound if CO is detected. It will make a different
sound if the battery is low or if it is time to get a new CO alarm.
KKK If the battery is low, replace it.
KKK If the CO alarm sounds, you must get fresh air. Move outdoors, by an open window or near an
open door. Make sure everyone in the home gets to fresh air. Call the fire department from a
fresh air location. Stay there until help arrives.
PREVENT CO POISONING
KKK When warming a vehicle, move it out of the garage. Do not run a fueled engine indoors, even
if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked.
Clear snow away.
KKK During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove and fireplace are
clear of snow build-up.
KKK Clear all debris from dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace vents.
KKK A generator should be used outdoors. Use in a
well-ventilated location away from windows, doors, and
vent openings.
KKK Gas or charcoal grills can produce CO. Only use them outside.
KKK Have heating equipment and chimneys inspected by a
professional every year before cold weather sets in.
KKK Open the damper when using a fireplace for adequate
ventilation.
KKK Never use your oven or stove to heat your home.
Carbon
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas. It has no odor. CO gas is poisonous.
It can make a person feel sick and can be deadly. In the home, heating
and cooking devices that burn fuel can be sources of carbon monoxide.
Monoxide
Carbon
Monoxide
SafetySafety
FACT!
CO is called the invisible killer
because the gas cannot be
seen or smelled. Take action to
stay safe from CO poisoning.
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