Keeping your family safe is one of the most important roles of your home. It protects you from the elements, outside intruders, and even pesky animals. However, there are some aspects that can be harmful within your home as well, like fires or carbon monoxide. To help you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family, consider the following guide on carbon monoxide detectors.

What Is the Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that is created as a byproduct of common appliances and chemical reactions. Some items that can generate CO include fireplaces, gas dryers, gas stoves, wood stoves, fire-fueled furnaces, and vehicles. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide is a toxin that can be fatal if you're exposed to it. To help ensure that you and your family are safe, carbon monoxide detectors are essential. These detectors will sound an alarm if an unsafe level of CO is measured within your home in the same way a fire alarm sounds when smoke is detected. This allows you to get yourself and your family out of the home before the negative health effects begin to occur. 

What Should You Do if a Carbon Monoxide Alarm Goes Off?

As soon as you hear an alarm from your carbon monoxide detector, drop what you're doing and get your family outside as fast as possible. If you're cooking, turn off the source of the gas. However, don't stop to look for any potential signs of a leak on your way out. Make sure that all of your family members and any pets join you outside. On the way out, leave the door open after you to reduce the buildup of CO inside. Reacting to an alarm can be scary, but having one in place can help give you a stronger peace of mind and provide you with early warning signs to avoid catastrophic events. 

If you need a carbon monoxide detector, turn to the professionals at Action Security & Communications in Rochester, NY. As a trusted electronic security provider, they've been providing homes and businesses with quality products and fast, professional services for over 30 years. In addition to carbon monoxide detectors, they also provide home security systems, fire alarms, camera systems, and more. All of their products and services are backed by cutting-edge innovation, so you can rest easy knowing you're protected. To learn more about their range of services, visit their website, or call (800) 445-1410 to schedule an installation today.