Jan 1, 2007 7:57 pm US/Central
New Law Requires CO Detectors In New Homes
Red Wing, Minn. (WCCO) ―
According to a new state law that began with the arrival of 2007, new homes and apartments in Minnesota will be required to have a carbon monoxide detector.
As the law went into effect, Susan Hopp looked at photos of her son Nathan, who was one of three people who died at the Red Wing, Minn. family's house from carbon monoxide poisoning.
"He enjoyed life, he was happy," she said. "This was his first sled."
Nathan never let his severe disabilities slow him down. Skiing was a favorite past time. Nathan's Christmas sock is displayed on the mantle in his memory. It's a difficult time of year for the family.
"I miss Nathan. He was my life for 15 years. I did everything for him," said Susan, who found Nathan dead from carbon monoxide poisoning on Christmas evening two years ago.
Susan and her daughter were so sick, they struggled to call 911.
"She got the phone but couldn't dial the phone. I couldn't walk, barely stumbled," she said.
More heartbreak followed when Susan's brother and a family friend were also found dead in the basement.
A faulty furnace was to blame. There was an outpouring of sympathy and an increased awareness for the need of carbon monoxide detectors.
"The whole town of Red Wing bought them. They sold out everywhere. Stores got them in stock as fast as they could," said Susan.
An overwhelming loss for one family led to protection from a silent killer for many others in Red Wing.
"I'm sure that saved a life, that it will save a life, now that they have them," said Susan, who believes that new windows and siding also led to the build-up of carbon monoxide in her house.
In 2008, existing homes in Minnesota will be required to have CO detectors as well.
(© 2007 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
