CO Alarm Maintenance Information
The Burien Fire District has received multiple 9-1-1 calls this year from concerned residents because of chirping carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. While it’s important to call 9-1-1 if your CO alarm is sounding continuously without stopping, a CO alarm that chirps every 30 seconds is not an emergency. It probably means your CO alarm has reached its end of life and should be replaced.
See the document attached for more information about CO Alarms, the laws regarding their use and best practices about what you should do if you hear yours chirping.
See the document attached for more information about CO Alarms, the laws regarding their use and best practices about what you should do if you hear yours chirping.
Washington State CO Alarm Laws
Beginning January 1, 2011, state law required CO alarms to be installed in all new single family homes and residences, including apartments, condominiums, hotels, and motels.
State law requires CO alarms be installed in existing apartments, condominiums, hotels, motels and single-family residences by January 1, 2013. The following is a link to a fact sheet that explains the CO Alarm Laws. Fact Sheet (PDF)
State law requires CO alarms be installed in existing apartments, condominiums, hotels, motels and single-family residences by January 1, 2013. The following is a link to a fact sheet that explains the CO Alarm Laws. Fact Sheet (PDF)
Generator Safety
Portable generators are useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed, but they can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using them are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock or electrocution, and fire.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) would like you to know that there are simple steps you can take to prevent the loss of life and property resulting from improper use of portable generators.
To Avoid Carbon Monoxide Hazards:
To Avoid Electrical Hazards:
To Avoid Fire Hazards:
Portable Generator Hazards: A Factsheet on Portable Generator Safety (PDF)
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) would like you to know that there are simple steps you can take to prevent the loss of life and property resulting from improper use of portable generators.
To Avoid Carbon Monoxide Hazards:
- Always use generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents.
- NEVER use generators in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces, or other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Install battery-operated or plug-in (with battery backup) carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home, following manufacturer's instructions.
- Test CO alarms often and replace batteries when needed.
To Avoid Electrical Hazards:
- Keep the generator dry. Operate on a dry surface under an open, canopy- like structure.
- Dry your hands before touching the generator.
- Plug appliances directly into generator or use a heavy-duty outdoor- rated extension cord. Make sure the entire extension cord is free of cuts or tears and the plug has all 3 prongs, especially a grounding pin.
- NEVER plug the generator into a wall outlet. This practice, known as backfeeding, can cause an electrocution risk to utility workers and others served by the same utility transformer.
- If necessary to connect generator to house wiring to power appliances, have a qualified electrician install appropriate equipment. Or, your utility company may be able to install an appropriate transfer switch.
To Avoid Fire Hazards:
- Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
- Always store fuel outside of living areas in properly labeled, non-glass containers.
- Store fuel away from any fuel-burning appliance.
Portable Generator Hazards: A Factsheet on Portable Generator Safety (PDF)
