Bona's ahead of curve on carbon monoxide laws

Amanda's Law took effect all across New York Monday, requiring all state residences to have carbon monoxide detectors installed. Ralph Aloia, St. Bonaventure's fire and life safety officer, was right to update the system a year ago. It's comforting to know students' safety is a priority.

A college dormitory is classified as a "multiple dwelling" and would be required to have a detector in each sleeping area, according to the law. Aloia said the department of Fire and Life Safety installed more than 200 detectors in the Townhouse and Gardens Apartments. But Amanda's Law does not apply to areas where there is no carbon monoxide source, according to the New York Department of State. This includes all other residence halls, which are heated with steam.

However, in buildings like De La Roche Hall and the William F. Walsh Science Center, where there are sources of gas, the school has hired a contractor to ensure carbon monoxide safety, Aloia said.

The school's decision to update the carbon monoxide system before Amanda's Law required it was the correct choice regardless of cost. Student safety and well-being should be a university's priority. Aloia has proven this is the case at St. Bonaventure.