Many deaths are caused by smoke and toxic gases, not the fire itself. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement and workshop, and especially near sleeping areas. For extra protection, consider installing a smoke detector in every bedroom. Be sure to test batteries at least once a month and never remove the batteries from your smoke detector except to replace them. Because CO is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, it often goes undetected.
Carbon monoxide is a normal by-product of combustion.
Therefore, any fuel burning appliance in your home is a potential CO source. Every home should have at least one CO detector placed in an area near sleeping rooms. A GFCI is essential in circuits to bathrooms, laundry facilities, kitchens, swimming pools, and outdoor receptacles. Test the GFCI monthly by pressing the test button and then the reset button to see that it is operating properly. A multi-purpose dry chemical Class ABC fire extinguisher is the best choice for general home use.