Safe home oxygen use tips

The Berkshire Eagle recently reported on a fatal fire that caused the death of a 77-year-old man and destroyed his home. It was reported that the man had lit a cigarette with his oxygen in use, and that was what caused the fire. When you’re using oxygen in the home, it creates an atmosphere where a spark can easily ignite and cause a fire, and that fire can rapidly spread.As a nurse who does home care in our area, I too often see situations where clients who are using home oxygen are putting themselves at risk for fires. By understanding and following some very basic safety protocols we can greatly reduce that risk.First, don’t smoke and don’t let anyone else smoke in your house. Smoking is the leading cause of fire from home oxygen use.Post “Oxygen In Use” signs on all outside doors.Post “No Smoking “signs in all rooms where your oxygen is kept.Check that all electrical equipment in the area near the oxygen is properly grounded. Do not use extension cords with medical equipment.Stay at least 6 feet away from any open flame or heat source (candles, gas stove, fireplace, wood stove) when you are using your oxygen system.Do not use aerosol cans or sprays, including air fresheners or hair spray while using oxygen. These products are very flammable. Do not use cleaning products or other products containing grease, oils, petroleum jelly, alcohol or flammable liquids on or near your oxygen system. These substances also can be flammable.An oxygen cylinder must be secured at all times; put it in a cart or lay it down flat. Do not store your oxygen system or any extra oxygen cylinders near any heat sources or open flames and keep them in a well-ventilated room.Notify your electric company if you are using an oxygen concentrator system so the company can make your house a priority during a power outage.And last, but so important: Be sure to have a functioning smoke detector and fire extinguisher in your home at all times.Maura Rose RN, FNP, iRNPA is a patient advocate and elder care consultant in Great Barrington, www.rosecareadvocacy.com.