Recent deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning, including a young mother in Manitou Springs, has caused a run on detectors as local stores struggle to keep up with the demand.

Several area hardware stores reported Tuesday they either are sold out or have few in stock. The detectors, which emit a high-pitched alarm when set off by the deadly, odorless gas, sell for $20 to $60.

One Wal-Mart store received 50 detectors on Saturday, but had only one left Tuesday afternoon.

Shortages are not uncommon during the winter, said Christina Martin, who manages the Ace Hardware store in the Bon Shopping Center.

"Carbon monoxide comes from a furnace, a hot water tank or a fireplace," Martin said. "Usually when you start hearing about deaths or potential deaths, that's when we start getting a run on them."

Six people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in Colorado since late November, the most recent a Denver student on Monday.

The Rocky Mountain News reported that graduate student Lauren Johnson died from a suspected leak at an apartment complex near the University of Denver.

Denver residents Parker and Caroline Lofgren and their two children died while staying in Aspen during Thanksgiving week, and Kelly Murphy died Dec. 17 in her Manitou Springs home.

There are currently no laws in Colorado that require carbon monoxide alarms in any building, said Colorado Springs Fire Department community services supervisor Cathy Prudhomme.

A bill that would require alarms in some new buildings - named in honor of the Lofgren family - is expected to be introduced in during the legislative session beginning today.

TIPS FOR CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

The Colorado Springs Fire Department shared these tips for the effective use of carbon monoxide alarms:
• Smoke alarms do not necessarily detect CO, and vice versa. Units that detect both will be marked as such.
• One alarm covers 1,200-1,500 square feet, so it can cover several bedrooms if located in a central area. Each level of a home should have its own alarm.
• CO mixes evenly with air. As long as they aren't blocked by curtains or furniture, CO alarms needn't be installed near the ceiling.
• CO alarms should be replaced every five to seven years, and smoke detectors every 10. Both should have batteries changed annually, and be tested by button press once a month.