Carbon Monoxide Alarms Now Mandatory, Reminds Fire Department

Every six months, some laws come into effect. This one could save your life.

As of July 1, a new California state law requires homeowners to install carbon monoxide detectors, according to the . Previously, the law only required new homes to have the alarm, but now the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act, Senate Bill 183, mandates that all single-family and multifamily or rental units also comply—the latter by Jan. 1, 2013.

Carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, kills approximately 500 people each year and injures another 20,000 nationwide, estimates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include severe headaches, dizziness, mental confusion, nausea or light-headedness, and prolonged exposure can result in death, according to the state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. When burned, fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal can produce carbon monoxide.

"Having a CO detector is a small investment that really can help save your life and the lives of your family," said state Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover.

It's also now the law.

For more information on how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or for a list of approved carbon monoxide detectors, visit the California Fire website at fire.ca.gov.