CO is an odorless, colorless, toxic gas that is a by-product of combustion. Any fuel burning appliance, such as a gas stove, vehicle, tool, etc. can produce dangerous levels of CO gas. CO, which can build up indoors and poison people and animals through breathing can be found in grills, gas ranges, dryers, water heaters, as well as furnaces, lanterns and fireplaces.

How serious is CO poisoning? Every year, more than 400 people die from it in this country and in excess of 20,000 have to make trips to emergency rooms because of it. About a fifth of those people end up in the hospital. And everyone, no matter the age, is at risk. Those most likely to suffer from CO poisoning include the elderly, as well as babies and individuals who suffer from chronic heart disease, breathing issues or anemia.

CO hinders the body’s ability to carry oxygen to body tissues, including the brain and heart. When it is inhaled, it mixes with the oxygen that carries hemoglobin of the blood to form carboxyhemoglobin. When that happens, the hemoglobin can no longer transport oxygen and in essence as you breath in the CO it replaces the oxygen in your blood. Breathe too much of it and it can become deadly within minutes. (The most common symptoms of CO poisoning could be mistaken for the flu as they include dizziness, headache, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, confusion and weakness.)

There are a number of ways to ensure that no one in your home ever suffers from CO poisoning, which include:

• Never use a gas range to heat a home
• Make sure any gas appliances are vented properly and have them checked annually
• Never use portable, flameless chemical heaters inside
• Have your chimney cleaned yearly
• Buy only appliances that boast the seal of a national testing agency like Underwriters’ Laboratories
• If you smell an odd odor from your appliances, have it serviced immediately
• Never use a generator inside your house, basement or garage or less than 20 feet from a door, window or vent

Carbon monoxide detectors monitored by Fleenor Security provide an early warning by using reliable electrochemical sensing technology to measure CO levels in the air. If a dangerous amount of CO is detected, the carbon monoxide detector will alert residents by sounding an alarm tone and flashing its red LED. Protection is provided 24/7 by an alarm transmission to our central station regardless of whether residents are away from home, sleeping, or already suffering from the effects of this dangerous gas.

If CO concentration reaches dangerous levels and triggers an alarm, the central station has the ability to contact the occupant and/or first responders. The central station will also alert the end user if the detector has been tampered with or is experiencing mechanical trouble. The detector will also alert our central station when the detector reaches end-of-life due to the limited life span of CO detection technologies.

If you suspect a CO leak or a detector goes into alarm, exit the home or business immediately and call your local fire department which can check for high levels of CO before returning to the home.

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Deciding the right home security provider is, in fact, the answer to any questions you might have. Once you have the right provider, they will take care of all your concerns. In order to choose the right one for your needs, there are specific questions for which you’ll need answers.

For instance, how long have they been in business? Experience is crucial and you will want a company that has been in operation for a certain number of years. Longevity generally means you’re dealing with an established and successful business. Other things to consider:

• Research the top equipment lines and check to see what brands the company uses. You will, of course, want reliable equipment if you’re investing in a security system. Also make sure you know the various features (notification system, remote access, etc.) available at the company.
• Is the company licensed and are warranties available? You will want a security company that operates with the laws and regulations in your area. Warranties will also be the norm for respected companies, as they will have no issues backing their systems and services.
• How much does it cost to install a system? Make sure you get costs up front and determine what those costs cover (equipment, installation, monitoring, storage, etc.)
• Where is the company located? These days many companies use their websites to offer online services. However, a local company is preferred because they know your area, can easier maintain your system and you can actually speak to someone in person.
• How often will your system be checked? This is key as regular maintenance is important to ensure that your system is working around the clock.
• Does the company have their own Central Station or do they subcontract a mega center to monitor you alarm system?  Where is the Central Station located?
• Are there any “hidden” charges? Make sure you know if there are any extra charges the figure into the cost.
• If you move, what happens to your system? Some companies will let you take your system with you and allow you to keep the same contract but some won’t. Make sure you know the company’s policy regarding moving.
• Does the system qualify for a home insurance discount? This largely depends on your insurance provider but some systems do qualify.

Don’t be shy about getting answers to these questions before deciding on a security system provider. After all, it’s your money and your home and you deserve to know all the details. Call one of our Fleenor Security representatives today, they will be happy to answer all of your security system questions.

The post Important Questions to Ask Your Home Security Provider first appeared on Fleenor Security.