Should I have a carbon monoxide detector?

All fuel-burning equipment produces carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a tasteless, colorless, and odorless poisonous gas. Normally, the gas from the combustion process is vented safely up a chimney or flue pipe, but there are times when the gas can enter your home. Some common ways that carbon monoxide can enter your home are as follows: 

  • Fireplaces and woodstoves with obstructed flues or down-draft conditions. 
  • Attached garages with vehicles running. 
  • Furnaces, water heaters, stoves, and gas-fired clothes dryers which are not properly vented. 
  • Space heaters fueled by gas, propane, or kerosene.

If any of these conditions could apply, you should have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home. Follow the manufacturer instructions regarding proper placement. If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, call 911. If anyone is feeling ill, complains of a headache, or has "flu-like" symptoms, evacuate the house immediately. The Fire Department has detection instruments that can assist you should your carbon monoxide alarm sound.

Show All Answers

1. Can I listen to the Fire Department on my scanner?
2. Do I need a burning permit?
3. Do I need a fire inspection?
4. How can I report a fire or emergency?
5. How can I request a fire safety presentation?
6. How do I get to the Fire Department administrative offices?
7. How does 911 work?
8. How many smoke detectors do I need in my house?
9. Should I have a carbon monoxide detector?
10. Should I report a small fire, even if it's already out?
11. What are the statistics with children and fires?
12. What is the ISO rating for the Town of North Kingstown?
13. What kind of fire extinguisher should I buy?