SFM: Carbon monoxide alarms required; safety tips when using generator
Published 7:40 am Wednesday, June 22, 2022
- Louisiana State Fire Marshal
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The SFM is thrilled to see Governor John Bel Edwards sign legislation requiring 
carbon monoxide alarms in all one and two-family homes at the time of sale and/or lease AND in any home where a generator is installed.
carbon monoxide alarms in all one and two-family homes at the time of sale and/or lease AND in any home where a generator is installed.The timing could not be better as this goes into effect Aug.1 when our hurricane season ramps up!
While we’re talking about CO and generators, check out our safety tips on both topics 
Using a portable generator
Do not place generators inside of any structure including garages, carports and sheds (not even if the door is open fully or partially)
Instead, place the generator at least 20 feet away from your home, downwind away from open doors, windows and vents (porches are too close). Be mindful of the distance to your neighbor’s home too!!
Before refueling, turn the generator off and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet
Instead, use a heavy-duty, outdoor extension cord to plug appliances into generators
Do not use in rain or wet conditions
Have a fire extinguisher nearby Have a carbon monoxide alarm for your homeUsing a home standby generatorHave a CO alarm!
Give the generator a break once or twice a day to allow for any exhaust build up around your home to clear
Open windows and doors during those breaks to allow for any CO build up inside of your home to clear
Ensure your generator is being properly maintained including the oil change frequency requirements
Refer to your owner’s manual or contact your dealer or unit’s manufacturer if you have concerns or questions regarding proper installation or maintenance
If your CO alarm sounds:
Turn off the generator and open doors and windows to ventilate your home
Look for any air entry points into the home near your unit and ensure that those are properly closed and sealed off, such as windows or doors, air intakes, nearby dryer vents, or crawl spaces
Inspect your air filter for any dirt or debris residue and change the filter if found to be dirty
Check for anything around the unit that might be blocking airflow and remove the blockageThis law goes into effect January 1, 2023.
