Don’t Let a Killer In

Arizona enacted a law many years ago that requires a carbon monoxide detector within 15 feet of every “sleeping area” before the home is sold. Arizona is pretty good about this as they only cost $40-50 and are easy to install. Here is part of why the state legislature enacted this law…

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer you don’t want in your home but because it is colorless and odorless; you may not even be aware the deadly condition exists. The Center for Disease Control says more than 400 people in the U.S. die annually from carbon monoxide poisoning and over 10,000 require medical treatment each year.

16485740-250.jpg

Unmaintained furnaces, water heaters and appliances can produce the deadly gas. In addition, other sources could be leaking chimneys, unvented kerosene or gas space heaters or exhaust from cars or trucks operating in an attached garage.

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests the following to reduce exposure in the home:

  • Keep gas appliances properly adjusted
  • Install and use an exhaust fan vented to the outdoors over gas stoves
  • Open flues when fireplaces are in use
  • Do not idle car inside garage
  • Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up central heating systems annually

Headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and feelings of weakness or fatigue are a few of the most common symptoms. Lower levels of exposure to carbon monoxide may be mistaken for the flu.

Carbon monoxide alarms should be on every level of a home and especially, in sleeping areas. The alarms can be purchased for as little as $25 and plugged into the wall like a night light.

Regardless of the government requirements, no one would want to put their family, guests or themselves at risk for something so deadly.

Please let me know if I can get you any further information on this topic.

Call 480-355-8645 Or Email Us [email protected]


About the Author

Gina is an Associate Broker with RE/MAX Fine Properties and the Team Leader for The Gina McKinley Group. She is dedicated to selling homes in Arizona and passionate about providing the ultimate customer service experience through her expertise in the field. Gina received her real estate license in 1998 and has worked hard to service her clients by obtaining the designations and special education of Certified Distressed Property Expert, Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyers Representative, Certified Investor Agent Specialist, and the Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource Specialist. She has been recognized by RE/MAX International with the prestigious Life Time Achievement Award, the highest level awarded by RE/MAX. Gina has also been named "Top 1%" in the State of Arizona by Real Trends. Gina's real estate, marketing and business knowledge, experience, and contacts ensure that you will receive a world class customer experience when you work with the The Gina McKinley Group to help you buy your new home, an investment home, handle your property management or sell your current one.

Gina's personal time is spent with her family, Dan, Jeffrey, & Kristin. She is passionate about giving back to the community, serves on a housing council, and works in various fund raising activities for autism. Her hobbies include travel, fitness, gardening, and outdoor activities such as hiking, equestrian, and golf.