How to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide

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A security system protects loved ones from the outside world. What about the internal threats? Carbon monoxide is one of the most serious threats that faces your family.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a poisonous, odorless, and colorless gas that can kill. More than 25,000 Americans are affected by CO exposure every year. Out of these, over 500 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning.

With cold weather, carbon monoxide poisoning becomes a greater risk. The winter months – December, January, and February, respectively – account for 36% of CO poisonings. How do you keep your family safe?

Start with a sensor

Carbon monoxide detectors do just what the name says – detects carbon monoxide. If there is any CO detected in the house, this sensor lets sends an alert immediately. This monitored device is integrated into the existing security system. If there is any alarm, tamper, or battery condition message, you’re notified immediately so you won’t miss a thing.

Service CO systems

Preventing carbon monoxide poisoning is easy by having heating systems, water heaters, and any other gas appliances serviced by a qualified technician each year. Checking the systems when the seasons start to change is especially important, since the heating system or gas fireplace hasn’t been used for a while.

Properly vent 

No matter what type of home you have, every house has a few gas appliances. Make sure all equipment is properly vented by making sure the pipes are in the proper place. Such as, make sure horizontal pipes as they go outdoors, like on a water heater. This prevents a carbon monoxide leaks if the joints or pipes are fitted properly.

Watch for the symptoms 

CO poisoning presents itself with “flu-like” symptoms. So, it is important to be aware of what the symptoms look like and how they differ. Carbon monoxide comes across as a headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Knowing what to look for is crucial, and if you believe you have CO poisoning, you need to seek medical attention right away.

During the cold months, it’s important to start protecting your family from more than burglary. Carbon monoxide detectors are the first step in preventing harm. Add a CO detector to a home security plan today, and enjoy peace of mind.

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Why should you protect your doors and windows?

Unless you live in an underground bunker, you have no reason to worry about doors and windows. If you live above ground, however, you know that doors and windows are one of the most vulnerable points of entry in your home.

Burglars are bolder than we realize. They most commonly enter through an open window, a sliding glass door, or simply the front door. This means any home is vulnerable to a home invasion. So, why should you be concerned?

If you have anything valuable, this list is for you. Here are the top ways to help keep your home safe.

Like we said, burglars are bold

A staggering 34% of break-ins are done by a burglar entering through the front door. The break-ins we think of traditionally are smashed windows and busted down doors. That is simply not the case anymore. Even if you think your deadbolt is doing the job, it can do better. Smart locks alert you as soon as the door is unlocked or open, no matter where you are. In addition to a doorbell camera, you will always have a watchful eye on the front of your home. 

Don’t forget about the windows

A hot spot for burglars to enter is an open window, which is easier during the summer months. While the front door is convenient, windows are quicker and quieter to open. Luckily, with a recessed sensor, you will be alerted if the window is open or closed. So, if you ever think you left a window open, check the app to see which one was forgotten.

The problem with glass doors: you can see right through them

While great for providing natural light and adding variety, sliding glass doors also put your entire home on display. This what makes them a prime target for burglars. Glass doors are perfect for a forcible break-in because of the tempered glass. Designed for safety, the burglars won’t injure themselves if they break down the door. With a glass break sensor, it can detect the moment glass shatters and notifies you right away.

So, if you live in a home with doors and windows, it’s time to protect them.

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