Friday, February 25, 2011

New Carbon Monoxide Law




House Bill 3450, also called the Lofgren and Zander Memorial Act, was passed by the 2009 Oregon Legislature, requiring the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in residential homes.  The purpose of this new law, is to reduce the number of deaths each year related to Carbon Monoxide.
As of April 1, 2011, this law goes into action, no joke! CO detectors are require in all new construction or remodeling that requires a permit. This also include existing homes that go on the market or close after the 1st.

A detector is required on each level of the house. It is preferred that they are in all bedrooms but at a minimum they should be within 15 feet of sleeping areas. These detectors can be with the hardwired or plug in.

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. CO binds more easily to redblood cells displacing oxygen. This results to lack of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs, resulting in tissue damage or death.

Sources of CO: Heaters, Furnace, Fireplaces, Woodstoves, Appliances, Portable Generators, Cars, and Lawn Mowers. That is just naming a few!

Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in you home, not only because its the law, its a simple way to stay safe. For more information Click Here

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