Carbon monoxide detectors sound a little bit different than smoke alarms.
"We recommend that all households have a carbon monoxide detector installed and functioning year round," said Dave Cochran of the Reno Fire Department.
You'll want to test them often too. All detectors come with a manual on the back for your convenience. It's important to know what each beep means. You may have to change the battery, or you may be in danger.
"We have false alarms where people hear the beeps and it's indicating a low battery but they believe it's an alarm," said Cochran.
But it is better to be safe than sorry. Letting your car warm up in the garage followed by opening the door to your house is known to tip off detectors. If you do call the fire department there is no charge and the fire department is more than happy to help.
While you should never just assume the battery should be changed, sometimes that is the case. Even if your battery has a long shelf life, officials still recommend you test detectors once a month. Â
"Newest ones we have now are the ones you don't have to change your batteries for up to ten years so it's really good," said Dominic Kelly of Home Depot.Â
Compared to two years ago, customers have a lot more options.
"They also have voice activated. You can have stuff sent to your phones," said Kelly.
You download the app and it syncs your phone up with the device. Without a monthly charge. Good to know if you're away from your house. If you are inside and suspect you have carbon monoxide poisoning make sure to call the fire department. The symptoms mimic the flu with a headache and nausea. Â
