To protect occupants from carbon monoxide, which measure is essential?

• A. Rely on ventilation alone
• B. Install CO detectors in living spaces
• C. Rely on smell to detect CO
• D. Use fans exclusively

Answer: (B)

Detecting carbon monoxide with alarms is essential because CO is colorless and odorless, so people can’t rely on senses to know it’s present. Ventilation alone can’t guarantee safety—CO can accumulate faster than it can be diluted or vented, and simply relying on airflow may still expose occupants to dangerous levels. Smilingly trying to detect CO by smell is ineffective, since there’s no odor to notice, and using fans alone doesn’t remove CO from the space. Installing CO detectors in living spaces provides an immediate warning, allowing occupants to evacuate and take action, which is the most reliable protection.