As of today, July 1, 2009, Colorado will require carbon monoxide alarms to be installed in all multi-family units and single-family homes, including mobile and manufactured homes.
 If you are planning a purchase, rental turnover, or any project that requires a building permit, such as a major home improvement, appliance replacement, remodel or new construction, a working carbon monoxide detector must be installed within 15 feet of the entrance of all bedrooms. Detectors must be verified at the time of inspection, or final approval on the permit cannot be granted.
Detectors don’t have to be hard-wired; they may be plugged into a non-switched outlet or may be combined with a smoke alarm or home security system.
The following is a list of commonly asked questions about carbon monoxide.
What is carbon monoxide? Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colorless, odorless gas produced by the incomplete burning of fuels such as coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane and natural gas.
Why does Colorado require carbon monoxide detectors? Every year, approximately 170 people in the U.S. die from carbon monoxide produced by non-automotive sources such as malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, ranges, water heaters, etc.), generators, fireplaces or other combustion sources. Thousands more receive emergency treatment for this preventable problem.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning? Initial symptoms of mild CO poisoning can easily be mistaken for flu symptoms (without the presence of fever). High-level CO poisoning can include mental confusion, loss of muscle coordination, loss of consciousness and death. Because CO poisoning frequently occurs at night, an alarm system may be your only option for early warning.
What do I do if the alarm sounds? Immediately move outside to fresh air and call 911. Do not re-enter the building for any reason. If someone is missing from your group, inform emergency responders and wait for the all-clear. |