Summer is family time. Road trips. Hotel stays. Backyard cookouts. Late-night movie marathons at home. And while it’s the season of sun and fun, there’s a potential hidden danger that many families don’t think about: carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the “silent killer” because you can’t see, smell or taste it. Yet it can build up quickly and reach dangerous levels before anyone realizes there’s a problem.

This silent killer is scary for parents. But whether you’re at home or on vacation, a few simple habits—and the right tools—can help keep your family safe this summer.

Why Carbon Monoxide Safety Matters Everywhere You Are

CO is a highly toxic gas that can be produced by fuel-burning appliances that are commonly used in homes and buildings, like furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, generators and grills. Exposure can cause symptoms that may look like summer fatigue, including:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Confusion

Because symptoms can mimic common ailments like dehydration or heat exhaustion, families may not realize what’s happening right away. Children, older adults, pets and people with certain health conditions may be especially vulnerable to CO poisoning.

Because CO poisoning can happen in places you feel safe and where you are having fun, it’s critical to have working carbon monoxide alarms—like Kidde’s new line of enhanced detection CO alarms—as part of your family safety plan wherever you go.

5 Carbon Monoxide Safety Habits Every Parent Should Know

Whether your family is staying close to home or traveling this summer, these simple habits can help protect the people you love:

1. Test Your CO Alarms Before Summer Plans Begin

Before the season gets too busy, test all smoke and CO alarms in your home. Replace batteries if needed and check the manufacturing dates on your devices. Alarms need to be replaced every 5-10 years depending on the model. Many families are surprised to learn that the performance of many CO and smoke alarms diminishes over time as components and sensors age. If you don’t remember the last time you replaced your alarms, it’s probably time for a new one!

2. Think Beyond “Standard” Detection

Technology continues to evolve, and so do the tools families rely on to help keep them safe. That’s why Kidde, North America’s #1 fire safety brand^[1], is introducing a new line of its most advanced carbon monoxide alarms, equipped with enhanced features—including low-level CO detection in certain models—to help support safer, everyday living at home or away.

The new line of devices can help families take action sooner with low-level detection, rest easier with no low-battery chirps at night and stay informed day or night with real-time data displays on select models. For households with young children, older relatives or pets, earlier awareness can provide added peace of mind.

3. Bring Safety With You

Not every hotel, rental or vacation property is required to have carbon monoxide detectors in guest rooms. Bringing a AA-battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm—like Kidde’s new battery powered devices—can help families feel more prepared while traveling. A battery-operated device takes up little space in your suitcase, but can make a big difference in your travel routine.

Kidde also has a Travel Safety Checklist, which includes important tips for practicing CO safety and can help to keep your family safe while away from home.

4. Ask Questions Before You Check In

Before booking a hotel or rental property, ask:

• Are carbon monoxide alarms installed?
• Where are they located?
• When were they last tested?

These questions may feel small, but they can help you make informed choices for your family.

5. Know the Signs—and Act Fast

If multiple family members suddenly complain of headaches, nausea or dizziness—especially indoors— don’t ignore it.

Move outside to fresh air immediately and call emergency services if symptoms continue. Having a plan can help parents act quickly when every second matters.

Safety Is Part of Family Memories

Summer is meant for memory-making, not worrying. Whether you’re sleeping in your own home, staying with relatives or checking into a vacation rental or hotel, adding carbon monoxide awareness to your family checklist is one more way to help protect what matters most.

Because when it comes to your family’s safety, “probably” isn’t a plan.

National PTA does not endorse any commercial entity, product, or service. No endorsement of Kidde is implied.

^[1] Based on total household installations as of December 2023