Carbon monoxide (CO) can kill. The silent, odorless, and poisonous gas from incomplete combustion is responsible for hundreds of deaths in the United States each year. While consumers continue to learn about CO and take steps to prevent its presence in their homes and buildings, appliance manufacturers are ensuring that both their customers and the end users have safe, operating equipment that lessens the dangers of CO poisoning.

Going hand-in-hand with safe equipment is the need for a safety net. First and foremost, there is no substitute for an annual inspection of fuel-fired appliances throughout the home. Another measure that consumers can take includes installing a CO alarm, which detects the presence of the deadly gas and warns building occupants before CO levels become harmful and can cause injury or death. Recognition of the value of CO alarms continues to grow. Several states and municipalities have mandated the installation of CO alarms in new and existing buildings. Like smoke alarms, CO alarms have become a necessary tool to promote safety.