I'm sure this thread has been long forgotten, but being a southern New England guy myself, I wonder about these issues all the time!!
There seem to be far more myths than facts on this issue. The biggest misconception is where a Firomatic is required. It seems like they get installed above all gas and oil burning units, but I cannot locate a code that requires them. Although I see how they are necessary for oil burners, they have absolutely no purpose for a gas burner.
Also, I don't see what good the customary switch at the top of the stairs will do either. By the time a fire starts, the best thing to do is get the heck out of the house and call the fire department.
Peter
