Northern Light Pediatrics-Newsletter

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

BEST TYPE: Look for a CO detector with an 85-decibel alarm, a digital display (it shows you whether the monitor is working), and a Test/Reset button. One top-rated model is the Kidde Nighthawk 900-0076 (about $50, at most hardware stores). To minimize nuisance alarms, look for models conforming to the latest revision (June 1995) of UL standard 2034 (it'll say so on the package).

BEST LOCATION: Outside sleeping areas.

BEST PLAN: Test monthly, along with your smoke detectors. Some models combine CO and smoke detectors into one unit. Feel free to choose one of those if it begins to seem like your ceilings are lost beneath all the detectors. Because many people forget about CO monitors, give them as housewarming gifts, Appy suggests.

Sari Harrar - Better Homes & Gardens, June 2005