STATEWIDE – With so many Marylanders using medical oxygen therapy, and the amount of injuries and deaths occurring every year in both Maryland and nationwide, State Fire Marshal Brian S, Geraci is offering several safety tips to prevent a tragedy by fire while using oxygen. “All Marylanders need to be aware of the potential hazards involving medical oxygen use. Oxygen itself is not flammable, however, an oxygen enriched environment can cause materials to ignite more readily and burn at a faster rate than normal,” stated Geraci “Please consider these safety tips to ensure individuals using oxygen therapy and those around them are protected from the effects of fire”.
If oxygen is in use, the amount of oxygen in the air, furniture, clothing, hair and bedding materials is increased, making it easier for a fire to start and spread, thus increasing the potential for serious burn injuries or death. The following safety tips will help prevent a fire from occurring in an oxygen enriched environment.
- Never allow the use of an open flame such as candles, lighters, matches, woodstoves, gas stoves, grills or even toys that create sparks when oxygen is in use.
- No smoking allowed in an oxygen enriched environment.
- Petroleum based products, oils, grease and lotions can self-ignite in the presence of high oxygen concentrations.
- If you use oxygen and insist on smoking, establish a ten minute rule. Turn off the oxygen supply and wait 10 minutes for high concentrations of oxygen to drop before going outside to smoke.
- Post “No Smoking” signs both inside and outside your home.
- Ensure working smoke alarms are tested monthly.
- Practice a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room at least twice a year.
Make sure you are well aware of how to use the oxygen therapy equipment. Ask your doctor, nurse or medical equipment company as many questions as you need to fully understand the continued safe use of all oxygen equipment and accessories.