With the return of cold winter months and property owners actively using furnaces, fireplaces and other fuel burning appliances local inspectors are reminding citizens of a Wisconsin state law that took effect February 1, 2011 requiring carbon monoxide alarms in all existing and newly constructed buildings used for sleeping purposes.

DOES THIS INCLUDE A BUILDING THAT IS 50 YEARS OLD ? Yes, the law is retroactive and includes all single family, two family, multi-family and public buildings with sleeping areas regardless of the building’s age.

WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE ? Carbon monoxide is a gas created by the incomplete burning of fuels. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, but highly toxic. It can build up over time, with unrecognized symptoms such as headaches, nausea, disorientation, or irritability eventually building to unconsciousness and fatal poisoning.

HOW DO CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS WORK ? Carbon monoxide alarms work like smoke alarms and warn you of the gas before it reaches dangerous levels. The alarms are a simple and effective way to protect you and your family and other building occupants.

WHERE SHOULD I INSTALL THE CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS ? For additional information regarding location requirements please contact the Building Inspection Department at (920) 686-6940.

WHAT TYPE OF CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM SHOULD I INSTALL ? For additional information regarding alarm type requirements please contact the Building Inspection Department at (920) 686-6940.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. Please view...