The activation of a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm signifies the presence of elevated levels of this odorless, colorless, and poisonous gas. Such activation indicates that a threshold concentration of CO has been reached, posing a potential health risk to occupants. For example, a malfunctioning furnace releasing combustion byproducts into a home could trigger the alarm.
The proper functioning of CO detectors is crucial for preventing CO poisoning, a potentially fatal condition. Historically, reliance on human senses to detect CO proved inadequate due to its imperceptible nature. The development and widespread adoption of CO detectors have significantly reduced incidents of CO-related illness and death.