If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, it is important to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the safety of others in the building. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Evacuate the building: Assume the alarm is working properly and there are unsafe levels of carbon monoxide in your home. All people and pets should quickly evacuate the home and find fresh air.

2. Call 911: Call 911 immediately and report that the alarm has gone off. If there is anyone experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and vomiting, make sure to report it.

3. Do not re-enter the building: Do not assume it is safe to re-enter the home when the alarm stops. Even if your alarm stops alerting, and you’ve switched off all the appliances and opened the windows and doors, the source may still be producing the poisonous gas. Wait for emergency responders to give you the all-clear before re-entering your dwelling.

4. Identify the source: Have the emergency responders check for the source of carbon monoxide and determine if it is safe for you to return to your home. It is recommended that you place your detectors at least 15-feet away from fuel-burning appliances or devices.

5. Replace or check the battery: If your detector makes three consecutive beeps around every five minutes, this indicates it is malfunctioning. Look to replace your detector. If the alarm is beeping due to low battery, replace the battery.

It is important to have a plan in place to keep you and your family safe in the event of a carbon monoxide leak. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level and in every bedroom of your home, test them regularly, and replace the batteries.