Carbon Monoxide Detectors - Why use them?

Carbon monoxide has no smell, taste or colour and is often called the "silent killer". Most cases of carbon monoxide poisoning are caused by poor ventilation or poor maintenance of appliances and servicing of chimneys. Chimneys can be become blocked for various reasons, but the most common one is birds nesting in them. A blocked chimney can cause carbon monoxide to leak into your home. When CO gas is enhaled, it prevents the blood's capacity to move oxygen throughout the body. Without a proper supply of oxygen, the brain will not function, thus death will result in a few minutes. It only takes five minutes to sustain permanent brain damage.

People who suffer this type of poisoning and who are rescued in time can be treated with pure oxygen. This removes the CO gas from the blood stream, which in turns allows the body to recover. People are at the most risk of carbon monoxide gas when they are sleeping. Installing a carbon monoxide detector with a loud audible alarm would alert people to the presence of this gas, resulting in lives being saved. Carbon monoxide alarms are relatively inexpensive when compared to the cost of saving lives.

There are three different types of these detectors, including battery operated, mains power electricity and mains power electricity with battery back up. The best type of these cabon monoxide detectors, is the mains power battery back up type. If the electricity supply fails, then this type of alarm will continue to operate as it has battery back up. The battery operated version of this detector is ideal for existing situations and where wiring to the electricity supply is not possible. It is also suitable for taking on holidays, as they are portable and lightweight. All of these types of detectors should comply with British Standard EN50921 or have an equivalent European approval such as kite mark.

CO detectors should be installed where boilers, stoves, water heaters, parafin heaters and gas appliances are present. Understanding the potenetial causes of carbon monoxide helps prevents accidential exposure. Make sure all these potential hazards are well maintained and that a carbon monoxide detector is fitted near them.