01/29/2026
The potential for CO emergencies is higher this time of year when people's furnaces are operating at high rates and when additional space heaters are used in the house. Be sure to test your CO detector(s) to ensure they are working and watch the two-minute video or read below about what to do if the CO detector sounds an alarm.
If your carbon monoxide (CO) alarm sounds, evacuate everyone (including pets) immediately to fresh air, call 911 from a safe location, and do not re-enter until emergency responders give the all-clear, as CO is a deadly, odorless gas that can still be present even if the alarm stops or windows are opened. Opening windows after evacuating is okay, but avoid doing so before first responders arrive to prevent them from getting inaccurate readings, notes the ADT website, the First Alert website.
Immediate Actions (Do This First!):
- Evacuate Everyone: Get all people and pets out of the building to fresh air immediately.
- Call 911: From a safe spot outside or a neighbor's home, call 911 or your local fire department.
- Report Symptoms: Tell emergency services if anyone feels headache, dizziness, vomiting, or confusion.
What NOT to Do:
- Don't ignore it: Never assume it's a false alarm.
- Don't ventilate before leaving: Don't open windows or doors before evacuating, as this can make it harder for responders to detect the CO.
- Don't go back inside: Stay out until fire/emergency personnel declare it safe, as the source may still be active.
After Emergency Services Arrive:
- Wait for the "All Clear": Only re-enter your home after firefighters or emergency responders have tested the air and given permission.
- Find the Source: A professional technician will need to find and fix the appliance (furnace, water heater, vehicle in garage) causing the leak.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can kill you. You cannot see it, smell it or taste it. It is especially dangerous to small children and elders. Carbo...
