Sunday, September 12, 2010

Firetruck on the First Day of School

This is a firetruck from our local fire department. It is in front of our house at 4:00 in the morning on the first day of school.
The night before, I got everything ready for the morning and got everyone in bed early (including myself) so we were well-rested for the next day. At 3:30 in the morning, a piercing sound woke up me and Peter. It was our carbon monoxide detector. Our immediate response was that it must be a malfunction or a low battery, but then I got a little nervous because what if it WAS the real deal. So, I pulled out my manual, and read the following: If you hear one beep every thirty seconds, then replace the battery. If you hear four quick beeps every few seconds, immediately leave your home and call 911. Well, we heard four quick beeps every few seconds. We still contemplated for a few minutes about whether to take this seriously, but then I read that children are the first to be affected, and with high levels of carbon monoxide, adults would be so disoriented, they wouldn't even be able to call for help. Peter heard the concern in my voice, and called 911. They told us the same thing as the manual - get out of the house. So, we loaded both boys and the dog into the car and parked across the street as a police officer arrived followed by two firemen in a firetruck. Sam was more than impressed. He wanted to get out and see the firetruck and meet the firemen. Of course, at 4:00 in the morning, I told him this wasn't an option. So he instead asked if he could have breakfast and go to Miss Lisa's house (daycare).

After what seemed like forever, they told us that there was no carbon monoxide detected in our home. This was, of course, a relief, but seriously, I think I need to write a letter to our carbon monoxide detector company. We were given the okay to back inside at 5:00 am, and of course, both kiddos were wide awake. We finally got them to go back to sleep at 5:45, only to wake them up at 6:15. So much for being well-rested for the first day of school! If anyone has a recommendation for a good carbon monoxide detector, do let me know:)

4 comments:

Kimberly said...

Oh no...I bet you were exhausted!! Of course it had to go off in the middle of the night. We have the brand Kidde carbon monoxide detectors...so far they haven't gone off for no reason!

my name is Amanda said...

It sounds like a hard night and maybe a harder morning, but better safe than sorry! I wish I had a good recommendation for you. Exciting times for Sam. :)

Candace said...

It was good you took the precaution. I love little innocent Samuel that just was the see the fire truck and say hello to the police officer. Glad you guys are okay!

Anonymous said...

Wow! I haven't read your blog in a while....good posts! Amy