Effective July 1, 2011, California's Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act (SB-183) requires all residential property be equipped with a California State Fire Marshal (CSFM) approved carbon monoxide detector when the property has a fossil fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage, as follows:
All single-family homes (owner or tenant occupied) on or before July 1, 2011 and all residential units (duplex/apartment/condominium complex) must be equipped with a detector on or before January 1, 2013. For new construction, CO alarms must be hard-wired and interconnected.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste or smell the toxic fumes can kill individuals before they are aware it is in their home. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure.
For more information on this new law visit the CAL FIRE website.
