New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office Offers Tips For Installing Smoke, Carbon Monoxide Detectors

NEW CANAAN, CT — The New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office reminds residents of the importance of having enough working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in their homes.

According to a news release provided by the fire marshal's office, research has demonstrated that fires can spread much more rapidly with today's modern furnishings than in the past when natural materials were used.

The fire marshal's office encourages New Canaan residents to follow these simple instructions when installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:

• Choose smoke/carbon monoxide alarms that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory such as UL.
• Install smoke alarms inside each sleeping room and outside of each sleeping area (typically in the bedroom hallway) and on every level of the home including basement.
• Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed outside of each sleeping area (again the bedroom hallway) and on every level of the home including basement. Combination smoke/carbon monoxide detectors are available for these locations.
• In addition to smoke detectors, the fire marshal's office recommends the use of heat detectors in areas where naturally occurring smoke or fumes would cause an alarm with a regular smoke detector. Places like kitchens and garages will benefit from heat detectors.

The fire marshal's office also offers complimentary home safety inspections for all New Canaan residents.

Residents can schedule an appointment by calling 203-594-3030 or sending an email to donna.hutter@newcanaanct.gov, according to the fire marshal's office.