Carbon monoxide detectors will be required for all open permits on single and multi-family dwellings beginning July 1, 2009 with the enactment of the Lofgren and Johnson Families Carbon Monoxide Safety Act (CRS 38-45).

The bill was signed into law on March 24 by Governor Bill Ritter in response to public concern following the deaths of the Lofgren family last November 2008 at a vacation home in Aspen, and DU student, Lauren Johnson, this past January due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Lofgren and Johnson Families Carbon Monoxide Safety Act states that approved carbon monoxide detectors need to be located within fifteen feet of the entrance to all rooms used lawfully for sleeping purposes. In addition, if the permit is for a multi-family rental unit, a carbon monoxide detector needs to be located within twenty-five feet of any fuel-fired heater, fuel-fired appliance, fireplace or garage.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is a result of incomplete burning of fuels. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause flu like symptoms, confusion, loss of muscle coordination, loss of consciousness and death.

For more information, visit http://www.douglas.co.us/community/building.