SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Due to unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, more than 400 deaths, 100,000 emergency room visits, and 14,000 hospitalizations happen in America each year.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, “Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, practically odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid. It results from incomplete oxidation of carbon in combustion.” Because it’s impossible to see or smell, having a CO detector is extremely important! Many smoke detectors will be a 2-in-1, so it will detect both smoke and carbon monoxide.

WHERE IT COMES FROM

Common sources of carbon monoxide:

  • Not venting kerosene and gas space heaters

  • Chimneys and furnaces that are leaking

  • Back-drafting from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces

  • Gas stoves

  • Generators and other gasoline-powered equipment

  • Car exhaust from attached garages

  • Tobacco smoke

  • Auto, truck, or bus exhaust from attached garages, nearby roads, or parking areas can also be a source.

SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING

Some symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

Headaches

Dizziness

Upset stomach

Vomiting

Confusion

FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES

Ensuring the safety of tenants in rental properties is crucial for both property management companies and landlords. Below is an overview of the key responsibilities regarding smoke detectors, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, and fire extinguishers, ensuring compliance with state and local laws.

SMOKE DETECTORS

Landlords are required to install and maintain working smoke detectors in all rental units. Smoke detectors must be installed in every sleeping area, outside the sleeping area, and on every level of a rental unit, including basements. Larger homes may require additional detectors.

The National Fire Protection Agency, or NFPA, recommends changing smoke alarms every 6 months and replacing the actual detector every 10 years. For detailed regulations on smoke detectors, visit the International Fire Code 2018 Chapter 9.

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) DETECTORS

CO detectors are required for properties with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. These must be installed in Residential Properties.

Key Points:

  • CO detectors are mandatory in homes where there’s a risk of carbon monoxide exposure.

  • It is the landlord’s responsibility to install and maintain these detectors, including battery replacements when necessary.

For specific regulations on CO detectors, refer to the International Fire Code 2018 Chapter 9.

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

  • Smoke Detectors: Kidde has been ranked highly by New York Times as one of the best brands for Smoke Detectors and combination detectors (one detector for both CO and smoke).

  • Google also has a great option for homes that want smart home integration, with the Google Nest Protect which is a detector for both smoke and CO.

  • CO Detectors: First Alert is recommended by Consumer Report for its reliability and performance.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

WHO IS REQUIRED TO HAVE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS?

  • Fire extinguishers must be installed in apartment buildings, hotels, commercial properties, and other residential occupancies.

  • Multi-occupancy residential buildings (apartments, care homes) must have fire extinguishers on each floor or in designated areas.

SERVICING AND INSPECTIONS

  • Monthly inspections should be conducted by property managers or designated personnel to ensure the extinguishers are accessible and in working order.

  • Annual maintenance is required, involving a thorough inspection by a certified technician. This includes checking the pressure gauge, tamper seals, and ensuring the extinguisher is intact.

  • Extinguishers should undergo hydrostatic testing every 6 years to ensure they are functioning correctly.