Carbon Monoxide Safety Awareness
The Hidden Safety Risk Many Texas Travelers Don’t Know About: Carbon Monoxide
When people check into a hotel or vacation rental, they assume it’s safe — working smoke alarms, proper ventilation, and no hidden dangers. What many Texas travelers don’t realize is that carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are not required by state law in hotels, motels, or short-term rentals, even when gas appliances are present.
That leaves many DFW travelers unknowingly exposed to carbon monoxide, often called the silent killer.
In our video, David Butler, Master Plumber at Milestone Electric, A/C, & Plumbing, explains why this gap matters and how families can protect themselves both while traveling and at home.
Why Carbon Monoxide Is Easy to Miss
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas created when fuel-burning appliances don’t vent properly. Furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and gas stoves can all produce CO if something goes wrong.
While smoke alarms are required in Texas hotels and rentals, carbon monoxide detectors are not. That means a room can meet state requirements and still have no protection against CO.
Many hotels and hosts install detectors voluntarily — but unless you check, there’s no guarantee.
How Travelers Can Stay Safe
David recommends a few simple steps:
- Pack a portable CO detector when traveling
- Check your room for gas appliances or fireplaces
- Ask your hotel or host whether CO detectors are installed
Portable detectors are small, affordable, and can provide peace of mind in unfamiliar places.
Protecting Your Home in DFW
Travel safety often leads to a bigger question: Is my own home protected?
Homes with gas appliances should have CO detectors on every level and near bedrooms, along with regular inspections of furnaces, water heaters, and gas lines. Milestone’s licensed plumbers and HVAC technicians help homeowners across DFW identify and correct CO risks before they become dangerous.
Local Expertise That Makes a Difference
Our licensed plumbers work daily with gas lines, furnaces, and water heaters, so we’re passionate about educating the public on how to protect themselves at home and on the road.