original template by Ray Lam, Fall 97

revised template by Rachel Shorey and Steve Bergen 2/9/98

Sarah Laputz November 21, 1997 English Ms. Snyder Invention Paragraph-Nonfiction Carbon monoxide detectors may only look like little plastic boxes, but actually, they can save your life. Similar to the fire alarmÕs system of detecting heat and smoke, the carbon monoxide detector will warn you of carbon monoxide in the area. Its sensor tablet contains chemicals that resemble human blood. While the carbon monoxide level increases, a horn sounds to warn people nearby. This detector uses electronic energy to run. The carbon monoxide detector was first manufactured in 1993 by a safety alarm company called First Alert. Carbon monoxide is a deadly poisonous gas that cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled. Approximately 1,500 people die and 10,000 need medical attention in United States from accidental exposure. Carbon monoxide is most likely to be found where cooking and other types of heating systems are located. If you have a carbon monoxide detector near these areas you can reduce the probability of dying from carbon monoxide. The company, First Alert, is located in Aurora, Illinois where many carbon monoxide detectors are made today.