EFFINGHAM FIRE DEPARTMENT -

Frequently Asked Questions

Detectors (Smoke/Fire/Carbon Monoxide)

Question:  Am I required to have a smoke detector in my residence?
Answer:  Yes.

Question:  Am I required to have a carbon monoxide detector in my residence?
Answer:  Yes.  If your residence burns fossil fuels or has an attached garage you are required to have a carbon monoxide detector in your residence.

Question:  My carbon monoxide detector has activated, what should I do?
Answer:  Remember, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless.  Call 9-1-1 immediately.  Leave your residence with ALL occupants, including pets if possible.  Do not attempt to ventilate the residence or re-enter the residence after leaving.  If it is cold outside, go to a neighbors residence or get inside a car-move it out of the garage if that is where it is parked.  If you have a cordless phone, take it with you.  If nobody is showing symptoms of carbon monoxide (nausea, vomiting, headaches, etc) we will respond non-emergency to your residence.  However, if someone does have symptoms of CO poisoning, an emergency response is initiated.  

Question:  Can you help me install a smoke detector in my home?
Answer:  Yes.  Contact our Central Fire Station at 217.342.2555 and we can set up an appointment for you.