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Vent pipe connections
improperly designed or becoming loose.
Improper use of appliances
by operating a barbeque grill, using charcoal, gas or wood
pellets, hibachi in an enclosed area such as a garage or screened porch.
Vehicles and portable generators
operating in a garage or any area too close to the living space.
Transient CO problems
also known as on-again/off-again CO problems, can be caused by
outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
Excessive spillage
or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances.
Outdoor ambient conditions
and temperature inversions which can trap exhaust and
pollutants close to the ground.
Wind direction
or wind velocity pushing heavy air in the vent pipes back in to the dwelling.
Negative air pressure
caused by simultaneous operation of multiple fuel burning appliances
competing for limited internal air.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM CO POISONING?
This alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air and sounds a loud alarm before (CO) levels
become threatening to the average, healthy adult.
An alarm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home appliances. To help prevent CO problems and
reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
Clean chimneys and flues yearly.
Keep them free of debris, leaves and nests for proper air flow. Have a
professional check for rust and corrosion, cracks or separations. These conditions can prevent proper air
movement and cause backdrafting.
Never “cap” or cover a chimney
in any way that would block air flow.
Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually.
Many local gas or oil companies and HVAC
companies offer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.
Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances.
Check appliances for excessive rust and
scaling. Check the color of the flame on the burner and pilot lights to ensure they are burning properly. They
should be blue. If the flame is orange or yellow, it is a sign the fuel is not burning completely and a repair
technician should be contacted.
Teach every member of your home about the sounds and operation of this alarm.
Proper response is
key to survival.
DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE
BASICS OF ESCAPE PLAN
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at least two escape routes from each
room. Second story windows may need a rope or chain ladder.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing everyone what to do in case of fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where all of you can meet if a fire occurs.
• Familiarize everyone with the sound of the smoke alarm and train them to leave your home
when they hear the sound.
• Identify children’s bedrooms with red stickers placed in the upper left corner of the windows.
They are available from your local fire department.
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months. Practice allows you to test your plan before an
emergency. You may not be able to reach your children. It is important they know what to do!
WHAT TO DO WHEN THE ALARM SOUNDS
• Leave immediately by your plan of escape. Every second counts, so don’t waste time getting
dressed or picking up valuables.
• In leaving, don’t open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot, or if you see smoke
seeping through cracks, don’t open that door! Instead, use your alternate exit. If inside door
is cool, place your shoulder against it, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and
smoke rush in.
• Stay close to the floor if air is smoky. Breathe shallowly through a cloth, wet if possible.
• Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and make sure everyone is there.
• Call the fire department from your neighbor’s home – not from yours!
• Don’t return to your home until fire officials say that it is all right to do so.
