Carbon monoxide detectors across state to expire this year
Back in 2011, the state of California made it mandatory for all residential properties to be equipped with approved carbon monoxide detectors, however, most detectors need to be replaced every 7-10 years. So that means alarms across the state will need to be changed beginning this year.
“Don’t take any chances because it is the silent killer. You won’t smell anything you won’t notice it. And if it happens at night then obviously you won’t have any symptoms, you’ll just perish in your sleep,” said Captain Fernando Herrera, public information officer for Cal Fire.
The symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning are easily mistakable for flu-like symptoms. They include: headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, confusion, or loss of consciousness. “The unfortunate thing about carbon monoxide is that we tend to see spikes during the colder months which happens to align with flu season,” said Sharon Cooksey, Communications Manger for Kidde.
If you hear your alarm beep twice, and then pause for 30 seconds, it mostly likely needs to be changed. Many people make the mistake of believing they simply need to change the unit’s batteries, without realizing this is indicating the entire unit needs to be replaced.
Last month, two employees at a Rancho Mirage restaurant were transported to the hospital after passing out due to carbon monoxide exposure. As of now, surprisingly, restaurants are not required to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in the state of California. “Hopefully there will be a shift towards more commercial applications moving forward,” said Cooksey.
Kidde has launched their “Beat the Beep” campaign, in an effort to educate households about the importance of replacing detectors on time and providing information about the California CO alarm law, also known as the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act.
Tonight at 4:30 on CBS Local 2 and 6 p.m. on News Channel 3, Madison Weil takes a look at what are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to know when it’s time to replace your detector.
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