January 26, 2010

Do you use home oxygen or know someone who does? Do you know that using home oxygen increases the risk of fire and burns? State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan and the Task Force on Home Oxygen Safety, which includes the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts Councils on Aging Association, have launched a public education campaign about increased fire dangers when you bring oxygen into the home. The critical message of the campaign is to educate patients, families, caregivers, and even physicians about these dangers.  Television and radio public service announcements are currently being aired and will run through June.  In addition, a new pamphlet that explains the dangers of home oxygen use and fire has been produced.  Download the Breathe Easy- Using Home Oxygen Safely pamphlet from www.mass.gov/dfs then click on Fire Safety Topics then Home Oxygen Safety. For more information call the Department of Fire Services at (978) 5678-3380.

What Are the Fire Risks?

The main danger is smoking. You should not smoke, and no one should smoke around you if you are using oxygen: the fire danger is too great.  It puts everyone nearby – families, neighbors and pets - at significant risk.  Home oxygen adds more oxygen into the air, making fires burn faster and hotter. Furniture, clothes, bedding and hair absorb oxygen and can catch fire more easily. Keep 10 feet away from any flame or heat source such as electric razors, gas stoves, heaters, hair dryers, and candles. Don’t use flammable products such as petroleum based lip balms or lotions. Quitting smoking is the best thing for your health and safety. Ask your doctor for help.

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