Friday, August 1st, CO Detectors become mandatory in all existing single family homes in Minnesota. CO is a colorless and odorless gas that can kill unsuspecting people while they are at home. Beginning Friday a CO Detector will be required within 10 feet of all sleeping areas in single family homes. For the typical home this means buying one or two CO detectors and for placement in the hallway outside the sleeping areas of the home. I did this at my own house over the weekend, it was no big deal and I can rest easily knowing that this little device is on 24/7 watching out for the welfare of my family. From 2002 thru 2006 there were over 90 deaths in Minnesota from CO.
This simple device will warn you if CO gases are building up to dangerous levels within your home. The usual culprits for CO gas emissions are furnaces, gas dryers, gas water heaters or other gas appliances. Every year in Eden Prairie the Fire Department responds to a few calls where people have flu like symptoms that are the early stages of CO’s deadly effects. By making the small investment in a CO detector all families can be assured of avoiding CO poisoning in their homes. If you have questions about CO detector placement feel free to contact me or any member of our Fire Prevention staff and we will get you up to speed.
