Each home or apartment should have at least one smoke detector in each bedroom, the hallway, in the sleeping area, and at the top of all stairways. Smoke rises, so the best place to install a detector is on the ceiling or high on an inside wall approximately 6-8 inches below the ceiling. However, do not install a smoke detector within three feet of any device that might blow the smoke away.

A battery-operated smoke detector, available at hardware or home stores is sufficient. Be sure to test the batteries monthly and change them once a year. To test the smoke detector, push the test button, or blow out a candle and hold it up so the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Either method should work. Batteries normally last up to one year, and usually the smoke detector provides an audible indication (a chirping sound) when the batteries become weak. As a reminder, the Vacaville Fire Department suggests you “Change your clock, Check your smoke detector batteries” in the Spring and/or Fall every year.

If you cannot afford a smoke detector, or are unable to change the battery, the Vacaville Fire Department may be able to install one for you, through a donation program of generous community members. Call the administrative office at 449-5452.

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a odorless, colorless gas produced by burning fossel fuels (Fossil fuels shall include natural gas, coal, kerosene, oil, propane and wood etc.) Exposure to lower levels of CO over several hours can be just as dangerous as exposure to higher levels for a few minutes.

Who needs a CO Detector?
Single Family Residences. A single family residence, heated by a forced air furnace or a boiler that burns a fossil fuel , should have a carbon monoxide detector within forty (40) feet of all rooms used for sleeping. The carbon monoxide detector should be placed so it will be easily heard in all sleeping areas and should be installed according to manufacturers instructions.

Multiple Family Dwellings & Apartment Buildings. A multiple family dwelling or apartment building, in which a hot water or steam boiler, that burns a fossil fuel and is located in the basement, must have one approved carbon monoxide detector installed in the room containing the central heating unit. The carbon monoxide detector should be installed according to manufacturers instructions.

Every apartment that has its own warm air heating plant (portable furnaces, space heaters, etc.) that burns a fossil fuel, should have a carbon monoxide detector within forty (40) feet of all rooms used for sleeping. The carbon monoxide detector should be placed so it will easily be heard in all sleeping rooms and should be installed according to the manufacturers instructions.

Who is at risk?

Those most at risk are:

• Children.
• Elderly.
• People with lung or heart disease.
• Pregnant woman.

Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning include:

• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Sleepiness.
• Weakness.
• Nausea, Vomiting.
• Dizziness, Confusion.
• Trouble breathing.

If prolonged exposure continues, loss of consciousness, coma, and ultimately death will occur.

Do you have any of these fuel burning appliances?

• Gas Furnace.
• Gas Water Heater.
• Fireplace.
• Wood Burning Stove.
• Gas Ranges or Ovens.
• Gas Dryers.
• Kerosene Heaters.
• Charcoal/Gas Grilles.
• Lawn Mowers.
• Snow Blowers.
• Chain Saws.

Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can occur if these appliances are improperly installed/maintained, damaged, malfunctioning or improperly used/ventilated. Furnaces, water heaters, wood stoves and chimneys should be checked yearly by a professional service. This is to ensure proper function and ventilation. Yard equipment (i.e., lawn mowers, snow blowers, etc.) or charcoal/gas grilles should never be used or run in the home.

What to do if your CO detector goes off.

• Ventilate the house and get out!
• As you leave, turn off fuel burning appliances if possible.
• Get fresh air.
• Call 911.
• Seek medical attention if you have signs & symptoms of CO poisoning.
• Don't go back into the building until cleared by the fire department.