Carbon monoxide detection advanced

Carbon monoxide detectors would be required in residences by a bill advanced from general file Feb. 18.

LB34, introduced by Omaha Sen. Sara Howard, would require the installation and maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors in any residence sold, rented or receiving a building permit after Jan. 1, 2017.

The bill would apply only to single- and multi-family dwellings with a fuel-fired heater, fireplace or attached garage. Building owners would be required to install detectors with alarms on every habitable floor or according to applicable building codes.

Instances of carbon monoxide poisoning are increasing in Nebraska, Howard said. She cited 167 calls made to the state’s poison control center about the gas in 2014, compared to 107 calls made in 2013.

The bill is vital for the protection of Nebraska families, Howard said, because detectors are the only way to identify the invisible, odorless gas, which is emitted from common appliances such as furnaces and water heaters.

“The key to solving this problem is early detection,” Howard said.

Senators advanced the bill to select file on a 31-1 vote.