Feb 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By Sarah Day

Every year 200 to 300 injuries and deaths are due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, according to the National Safety Council. A CO detector could have easily prevented these accidents.

“The CO detector is one of the fastest-growing segments in the fire- and life-safety industry,” reports Mike Berg of System Sensor. “CO can't be detected by human senses, so you have to rely on a CO detector to detect the toxic gas.”

A CO detector should be located near sleeping areas for maximum safety. The devices must be maintained to do their job. Batteries should be checked at least once a week and replaced once a year.

Outside monitor

A new electrochemical, CO detector from System Sensor provides continuous protection from the poisonous gas. The CO1224 calculates the level of CO in the house and is connected to a control panel that transmits the reading to a central monitoring station. When dangerous levels are calculated, the detector flashes and sounds an alarm. The central station also will notify the owner of the danger. If the owner cannot be reached, the central station may notify the proper authorities to investigate.

The detector must be purchased through a licensed alarm dealer. It retails for $75 from Closed Circuit Specialists (612/990-2288), an alarm dealer in Minnesota. Contact System Sensor, Dept. FIN, 3825 Ohio Ave., St. Charles, IL 60174, 800/736-7672, visit www.systemsensor.com or www.free productinfo.net/fin, or circle 172.

Continuous updates

A CO alarm from Kidde features a loud alarm to alert residents when CO levels rise. The Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm features a large LED screen that displays the CO levels and gives an updated reading every 15 seconds. An 85-decibel alarm ensures residents will evacuate a building quickly. A reset button allows the owner to silence the alarm. The CO detector plugs into an outlet and doesn't require wiring.

The Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm retails for $45 to $50. Contact Kidde, Dept. FIN, 1394 S. 3rd St., Mebane, NC 27302, 800/880-6788, visit www.kidde.com or www.freeproductinfo.net/fin, or circle 171.

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