Carbon Monoxide Alarms
What to do if your alarm sounds
First of all, never ignore an alarm and do not panic!
Many times, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are sounding well before levels have reached a life-threatening threshold.
To determine the need to call 911, ask each member of your household if they are feeling sick or experiencing "flu-like" symptoms: dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
If Yes: Immediately evacuate the household to a safe location and call 911. The best initial treatment for CO exposure is fresh air, followed by treatment from a physician.
If No: The likelihood of a serious exposure is greatly reduced, and calling 911 is not necessary at this time. Instead, turn off any gas appliances or equipment and open doors and windows to help ventilate your home with fresh air from outside. After completing this, contact your local gas utility company (e.g., MGE at 608-252-1111) or a qualified heating and ventilating service contractor to inspect your system for possible problems.
Note: If at any time during this process someone in your household experiences "flu-like" symptoms, immediately evacuate the home and call 911.
Protect Yourself
Resources
- State of WI Carbon Monoxide Alarm Rules for Multi-Family/Commercial Buildings
- State of WI Carbon Monoxide Alarm Rules for Single-Family/Duplex Buildings
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) - Carbon Monoxide Information Center
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Carbon Monoxide
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - Carbon Monoxide
For additional questions on Carbon Monoxide safety in your home, please contact the City of Madison Fire Department's Community Education Unit at (608) 261-9844.