Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless but can be lethal. The use of carbon monoxide detectors can alert occupants of elevated carbon monoxide levels before serious toxicity occurs. The triggering of the alarm can also help in making a prehospital diagnosis.
The density of carbon monoxide is close to that of air. When coming from a heat source it may move upward with the warm air. Some recommend placing the detectors 5 feet from the floor.
Detectors should be placed:
(1) To detect carbon monoxide release from high risk areas (attached garages, stoves, fire places, etc).
(2) On every floor of a home.
(3) Near bedrooms.
(4) In a location specified by law.
The detector should not be placed:
(1) too close to any fuel-burning appliance (within 15 feet)
(2) in an area with high humidity
(3) in direct sunlight
(4) near a source of blowing air
The detectors:
(1) should have been evaluated by a qualified testing laboratory.
(2) should be interconnected
