Carbon monoxide

is called the ‘silent killer’ because it is colorless, odorless and could be leaking in your home. At high levels this toxic gas can kill a person in minutes. In February 2010, New York State passed ‘Amanda’s Law’ (named after Amanda Hansen) requiring the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in all homes in the state of New York. The Amanda Hansen Foundation was established in September 2010 in memory of Amanda Hansen who passed away in January 2009 from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Steps to prevent CO poisoning:

• Install a battery operated or battery backup CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. Place your detector where it will wake you up if it alarms, such as outside your bedroom. Consider buying a detector with a digital readout. This detector can tell you the highest level of CO concentration in your home in addition to alarming. Replace your CO detector every five years.

• Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

• Have your chimney checked or cleaned every year. Chimneys can be blocked by debris. This can cause CO build up inside your home or cabin.

• Make sure your gas appliances are vented properly. Horizontal vent pipes for appliances, such as a water heater, should go up slightly as they go towards outdoors. This prevents CO from leaking if the joints or pipes aren’t fitted tightly.

• If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 9-1-1.

• When there is a lot of snow, especially in the winter months, please remember to keep your furnace’s intake and exhaust clear. Having snow blocking the intake and exhaust area could completely shut off your furnace or allow carbon monoxide to enter your home. If your home has an attached garage or a standalone garage where vehicles or lawnmowers are stored, always remember to open the overhead door prior to starting the motor.