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General discussion

carbon monoxide detector compulsory?

Mar 6, 2016 11:14PM PST

I am planning to get a ulc fire alarm monitoring system which also includes a smoke detector. But is it necessary to install a carbon monoxide detector along with smoke detectors. When I spoke executives from fire monitoring of Canada, they said its always better to keep one. Does any of one of you have carbon monoxide detector installed at your place? Is it mandatory??

Discussion is locked

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YES.
Mar 7, 2016 9:55AM PST
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It's required in the state I live in.
Mar 10, 2016 4:52PM PST

Mandatory or not, wouldn't you feel a bit safer having one?

Even before it was made mandatory where I live, I installed a couple in my home just to keep my mind at ease. I've heard way too many horror stories of families being killed by carbon monoxide. It is a silent killer because you can't smell it.

Better to be safe than sorry. It may cost a bit more, but it's your life and the people in household we are talking about, so it's worth getting. Just my .02.

Cheers,
-Lee

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Relevance of CO Detector
Apr 26, 2016 1:57AM PDT

Hi nanmj,
I have seen many people going through this dilemma while planning to install a CO detector. Since CO is colorless, tasteless and odorless (unlike smoke), it cannot be detected in a home environment without such a warning device. On the other hand smoke detectors are installed on a precautionary measure against fire. It senses the smoke and sends an alarm to the fire alarm system.
The need of the hour is to first prioritise your requirement which is feasible. Both the issues need to be dealt with equal importance. It will save you your precious life. They are inexpensive and easy to install. Of late I have heard about dual smoke/CO detectors which detects both smoke and CO. Recent models like the interconnected smoke alarms communicate between devices to provide whole house protection. They could be hard wired or wirelessly connected. When one of these alarms detects smoke or CO, all of them will sound. I would personally suggest you to invest in your safety and peace of mind. I would suggest you to take help from a home security monitoring systems service, regarding the type of alarm and their placement. Also remember to make use of the discount some insurance companies offer for homes with installed smoke alarms.

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Post was last edited on April 26, 2016 2:19 AM PDT