Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and very toxic. It also moves freely in the air. CO detectors can
measure the concentration and sound a loud alarm before a potentially harmful level is reached. The human body is
most vulnerable to the effects of CO gas during sleeping hours; therefore, CO detectors should be located in or as
near as possible to sleeping areas of the home. For maximum protection, a CO alarm should be located outside
primary sleeping areas or on each level of your home. Figure 5 indicates the suggested locations in the home.
Do NOT place the CO alarm in the following areas:
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Where the temperature may drop below -10ºC or exceed 40ºC
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Near paint thinner fumes
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Within 5 feet (1.5m) of open flame appliances such as furnaces, stoves and fireplaces
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In exhaust streams from gas engines, vents, flues or chimneys
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Do not place in close proximity to an automobile exhaust pipe; this will damage the detector
PLEASE REFER TO THE CO DETECTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTION SHEET FOR
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND EMERGENCY INFORMATION.