Consumer's Guide to Massachusetts Requirements For Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Presented By: Department of Fire Services
In November 2005, Governor Mitt Romney signed "Nicole's Law" which places certain requirements on owners of all residential properties to install and maintain carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations has developed the regulations establishing the specific requirements of the law including the type, location, maintenance and inspection requirements for the alarms.
Who is impacted by this Law?
Generally speaking anyone who owns residential property regardless of size (i.e 1-2 family homes, multi-family buildings, apartments, condominiums and townhouses, etc) that contain fossil burning fuel equipment (Oil, gas, wood, coal) or contains enclosed parking (attached or enclosed garage) in Massachusetts is required to install CO alarms by March 31, 2006. In certain limited instances (see below), the installation requirements are deferred until January 1, 2007
What do I have to do?
Install CO alarms on every level of your home except for basements and attics that do not have habitable living spaces. ( i.e, Family rooms, dens,etc.) by March 31, 2006
What Kinds of CO Alarms Are Allowed?
There are several types of alarms that are allowed; they include
*Battery powered with battery monitoring
*Plug in ( ac powered) units with battery back up
*AC primary Power with battery backup
*Low Voltage or wireless alarms
*Qualified combination smoke detectors and CO alarms
What Are Qualified Combination Detectors and Alarms?
acceptable combination smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms must have simulated voice and tone alarms that clearly distinguish between the two types of emergencies. If you have questions about various types of smoke detectors, contact your local fire dept.
What am I required to Do if I'm a landlord?
Landlords must install CO alarms in each dwelling unit. Landlords also must inspect, test and maintain the CO alarms at least once a year or at the beginning of any rental period (such as lease renewal). Batteries are required to be replaced once a year. Tenants should report any problems with alarms to the landlord immediately and learn to recognize the difference between the smoke and detector and the carbon monoxide alarm.
Where Do I Have to Put These CO Alarms?
In most residences, carbon monoxide alarms are required to be located on every level of a home or dwelling unit including habitable portions of basements and attics. On levels with sleeping areas the alarms must be placed within ten feet of the bedroom doors.
CO alarms do not go inside garages, but in the adjacent living areas.
When Do I Have to Install CO Alarms?
Most residences are required to install CO alarms by March 31, 2006. After that date anyone who sells their property will be required to have an inspection by the fire department prior to the sale or transfer of their property.
How Do I Know If I Have CO Poisoning?
The first symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu (but without the fever).
They include:
*Headache
*Fatigue
*Shortness of breath
*Nausea
*Dizziness
If you think you have symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning of your CO alarm is sounding, contact your fire department and leave the building immediately.