AFD Carbon Monoxide Detector Checklist (Residential Only)

 

On February 2, 2006, State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan and Board of Fire Prevention Regulations (BFPR) Chairman David Demers announced that the board has passed emergency regulations on carbon monoxide detectors. The Legislature directed the BFPR to draft regulations as part of the recently enacted “Nicole’s law” that requires carbon monoxide detectors in all homes with potential sources of carbon monoxide – those with fossil-fuel burning equipment or enclosed parking areas.

 

Nicole’s Law

On November 4, 2005, Governor Romney signed “Nicole’s Law”, named after 7-year old Nicole Garofalo who died on January 28, 2005 when her Plymouth home was filled with deadly amounts of carbon monoxide on January 24. The furnace vents had been blocked by snow during a power outage

 

Carbon Monoxide Detector Information

 

A Single Station Carbon Monoxide Alarm shall be located in each level of each Dwelling Unit including habitable portions of basements, cellars and attics, but not including crawl spaces. The installation of said unit shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and 527 CMR 31.00.

 

Habitable: Shall mean that portion of a cellar, basement or attic that is designed, used and furnished for living.

 

When mounting a carbon monoxide alarm on a level of a Dwelling Unit with a sleeping area, the alarm shall be installed in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping area, not to exceed 10 ft. as measured in any direction from any bedroom door

 

 

*      Carbon monoxide detectors can be battery, plug in with battery back-up or approved hard wired detectors.

*      Make sure the detector works properly.

*      Make sure they are mounted securely

*      Do not install in dead air spaces such as peaks of vaulted ceilings, or gabled roofs.

*      Do not install in turbulent air from ceiling fans.

*      Do not place near fresh air, heating, air condensing vents or close to doors and

*      windows that open to the outside.

*      Keep out of humid areas such as bathrooms.

*      Do not install in temperature below 40 degs or above 100 degs

*      Do not place behind curtains or furniture

*      Do not locate alarm within 5 feet of any cooking appliance

 

 

                                 

*These are the minimum standard to comply 26F 1/2.  Alternative Compliance options are available

26F 1/2 Information for Home Sales

For inspection information and scheduling please call the Ashland Fire Prevention Office at (508) 881-0132 between 8 am and 6 pm Monday through Friday