Portland Fire Department Recognizes the Anniversary of Landmark Legislation to Protect Citizens from Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide detectors a MUST for all apartments and homes

Portland, Maine – The Portland Fire Department in conjunction with smoke and carbon monoxide alarm manufacturer First Alert will mark the 5th anniversary of enactment of a Maine Public Law that requires installation of carbon monoxide alarms in most buildings that contain sleeping facilities.

The law, which applies to apartments, single family homes and in some cases hotels, motels, inns and most student housing, requires property owners to install carbon monoxide detectors that are powered by the building's electrical service.  Carbon monoxide is a colorless odorless gas that is produced as a result of any combustion. Any fuel burning appliance creates carbon monoxide. When that appliance is used improperly or malfunctions, carbon monoxide can saturate the air in your home and cause CO poisoning.

Every year more than 150 people die as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning according to the US
Consumer Product Safety Commission. The initial symptoms are so minor that typically persons experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning think they may have the flu.  Low to moderate CO poisoning symptoms can include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea or dizziness.

Captain David Petruccelli of the Portland Fire Department Fire Prevention Division states “With the start of the heating season in Maine, it’s time to remind people of the dangers of carbon monoxide. Homeowners and renters alike should check their carbon monoxide alarms and ensure that they haven’t t expired, and test them monthly.”
“Typically, CO alarms have a 5 year life span and should be changed when that life has been reached. The state law sets the minimum standards for CO alarms and installation.  Residents are encouraged to contact the local building code official to ensure yours meet the standards in your jurisdiction” continues Petruccelli.

Speakers will include Portland Fire Department Captain David Petruccelli, John Martell, President of the Professional Firefighters of Maine, Maine Senator-Elect Bill Diamond and GiGi Lubin on behalf of First Alert.


What: Commemorate the enactment of PL Chapter 162 LD 550 and remind Maine residents to install and test CO alarms.

Where: Portland Fire Department Central Fire Station
            380 Congress St. Portland Maine 04101

When: November 13th 2014 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Who:   Captain David Petruccelli; Portland Fire Department
            John Martell; Professional Firefighters of Maine President
            Senator Elect Bill Diamond
            GiGi Lubin; First Alert