Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless gas that can be produced when fuels such as gas, oil, wood or coal do not burn completely. Because it cannot be detected through normal human senses, reliable detection is an important part of household and workplace safety.

A common question is, do fire alarms detect carbon monoxide? The answer depends on the type of alarm installed. Standard smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke particles and generally do not detect carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide alarms, on the other hand, use sensors specifically designed to identify dangerous levels of CO in the air.

Some combination alarms can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, providing two types of protection in a single device. It is important to check the alarm's specifications before installation and ensure it is positioned according to the manufacturer's instructions. Regular testing, maintenance and timely battery replacement can also help keep detection systems working properly.