Carbon monoxide alarm going off: what families should do

Account for everyone and tell responders where anyone still inside may be. Do not re-enter to rescue a person or pet yourself. Describe any symptoms and possible fuel-burning equipment without returning to investigate. If someone cannot get out, call 911 immediately and explain their location.

The CPSC’s CO guidance says to leave, call emergency services and wait for permission before re-entering. An alarm that stops is not permission to return.

Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled. Possible symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. Symptoms are not specific enough to diagnose CO online. If exposure is suspected, get outside and seek immediate help rather than waiting for an alarm. Tell medical responders that CO exposure may be involved. CDC: carbon monoxide basics.

Do not send an older parent back inside to read a display or find a model number. Save routine equipment questions until responders have dealt with the immediate hazard.

Sound patterns and indicator lights depend on the model. Learn the manufacturer’s alarm, fault, low-battery and replacement signals in advance, using the exact manual. During an uncertain incident, prioritize getting to fresh air and contacting emergency services rather than diagnosing the sound indoors.

Once it is safe, make a simple instruction card showing the device model, where its manual is kept, who handles maintenance and the emergency action. Avoid a generic “three beeps means…” chart that may not match the device.

CPSC recommends CO alarms with battery power or backup on every level and outside sleeping areas, following installation instructions. Proper appliance installation and maintenance remain essential. The test button checks circuitry, not the sensor’s accuracy; follow replacement instructions too. CPSC: placement and testing.

Before an incident, agree how your parent will notice the warning and leave the home, including any hearing or mobility support. Record the alarm models, replacement dates, maintenance owner and a willing backup in your Family Action Plan. Use qualified professionals for fuel-burning appliance concerns.

CDC says portable generators belong outdoors, more than 20 feet from windows, doors and vents. Never run one in a garage or other enclosed area, even with doors open. Do not use a gas oven to heat the home. CDC prevention guidance.

Use our power-outage plan for home medical devices to prepare questions for the equipment supplier and agree on a destination and transport. It does not replace emergency instructions.