NH Department of Safety

Check InOn Your Neighbor

Carbon Monoxide poisoning took the lives of
4 New Hampshire residents in 2024.

A Message From NH Fire Marshal Sean Toomey

State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey wants you tocheck in on your neighbor and make them aware of the importance of a Carbon Monoxide detector.

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Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives

Keep your home safe by installing a reputable carbon monoxide detector. Carbon Monoxide detectors are your family's first line of defence.

New Hampshire Department of Safety's Mission

NH Department of Safety in collaboration with other state agencies are seeking to increase awareness of the critical nature of early detection.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

A Message From Gov.Kelly Ayotte

State agencies and representatives are working hand in hand to make New Hampshire residents safer. Check out this message from NH Governor Kelly Ayotte.

STEP 1.

Install and maintain CO alarms

Install CO alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home, including the basement.
Test CO alarms monthly by pressing the test button.
Replace batteries annually, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Note the detector’s lifespan (typically 5-7 years) and replace the unit accordingly, even if it appears to be working properly. You can check the expiration date on the unit itself.

STEP 2.

Ensure proper ventilation

Never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home.
Never run a generator indoors or in an enclosed space like a basement or garage. Operate generators at least 20 feet (6 meters) from any building or opening.
Ensure proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, and clothes dryers.
Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and check for any gaps, leaks, or rust.

STEP 3.

Regular professional inspections

Have furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and other fuel-burning appliances inspected by a qualified professional annually. This includes checking the heat exchanger for cracks and ensuring the burner area is clean.
Have converted equipment (e.g., from one fuel type to another) checked by a qualified technician after the conversion.

STEP 4.

Other precautions

Never leave a car running in the garage, even with the garage door open.
Avoid using products containing methylene chloride in unventilated areas.
If you smoke, do so outdoors.

STEP 5.

If a CO alarm goes off

Do not ignore the alarm. Assume it indicates unsafe levels of carbon monoxide.
Evacuate immediately. All people and pets should quickly leave the home and get to fresh air.
Call 911. Report the incident and any symptoms of CO poisoning (headache, dizziness, nausea, etc.).
Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders have cleared it as safe. Even if the alarm stops, the source might still be producing CO.