You may be able to protect your home from several types of risks with Illinois home insurance, but protecting yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning can be just as important as protecting yourself with smoke detectors and insurance.

What makes carbon monoxide gas so dangerous is that it is invisible and it has no odor, yet it is lethal. Many types of ovens, cooking ranges, heaters, grills, and dryers run on gas. Therefore, it is advisable to learn about carbon monoxide detectors and install one in your home if your home appliances run on gas.

Types of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Electrochemical detectors detect carbon monoxide and use electricity to trigger an alarm. Metal oxide detectors react to carbon monoxide found in the air, which sets off an alarm. Gel-based detectors actually change colors if carbon monoxide is present. They react by sounding an alarm.

Tips for Choosing Detectors

• Make purchasing your carbon monoxide detector a top priority. The wellbeing of you and your family is more important than spending money for extra things you can’t live without today.
• Check out a variety of detectors that come in many styles, sizes, and shapes. Some designs require more frequent battery changes than others.
• Read labels on detectors to determine the warranty plan. Many detectors carry a warranty for five years and need replacing by the end of the warranty.
• Some styles include both carbon monoxide detectors and built-in smoke detectors as well.

Contact your insurance agent after installing smoke detectors or carbon monoxide detectors. You may qualify to receive Illinois home insurance discounts.

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