​Safety advice for using medical oxygen at home. Avoid fire risks by following these guidelines for proper oxygen use and storage.

Safety advice

Oxygen, even at low flows, can saturate everyday items such as clothing, furniture, and carpets, creating an environment where fires can ignite and spread quickly. Simple actions, like smoking or charging electronic devices near oxygen equipment, can result in devastating accidents.

Follow these safety precautions to minimize the risk of fire:

• Avoid smoking or using electronic cigarettes in any area where oxygen therapy equipment is in use – this includes anyone in the household.
• When using medical oxygen, be aware that your hair, clothing, furniture, and carpets will become oxygen-enriched, making ignition much more likely. A small ignition source, such as smoking, a spark, or an electrical fault, could start a fire.
• Do not charge electronic devices (phones, tablets, laptops, e-cigarettes, or gaming consoles) in rooms where oxygen is being used or stored.
• Ensure oxygen equipment is only used in well-ventilated spaces and keep internal doors open to promote airflow.
• Avoid cooking while using portable oxygen units or right after oxygen use.
• Stay clear of open flames, such as candles, matches, lighters, or open fires.
• Never leave the oxygen supply running when it’s not being used.
• Avoid using oil-based creams or moisturizers when handling or using oxygen equipment.
• Store oxygen cylinders away from flammable materials to reduce the risk of ignition.