The Westford Fire Department and the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services want you to know these facts about carbon monoxide alarms and safety from indoor fires.

• Replace your carbon monoxide alarms at least once every seven years, if not sooner.
• One sign that a carbon monoxide alarm is reaching the end of its life span is a chirping sound that does not stop until the unit is powered off.
• Since the passage of Nichole's Law in 2008, nearly every residence in the Commonwealth is now required to have a carbon monoxide detector. 
• Allow 36 inches of clearance around the appliance to prevent combustibles from coming into contact with heat sources.
• Solid fuel heating appliances cannot share a common flue with chimney flues utilized by other solid, fossil, or gas fired appliances.
• A qualified mason should inspect the chimney and flue before a woodstove is used. Cracks in the flue or mortar joints can allow flames and heated gases to extend throughout a home.
• Most chimney fires occur due to a build-up of creosote, a tarry by-product of burning wood. Dry, well-seasoned hardwood can reduce creosote accumulation.
• Don't use flammable liquids to start a fire.
• Never leave children unattended near a fire.
• Make sure dampers are open before lighting a fire.
• Fireplace screens can help prevent flying sparks and embers from starting fires.