Specialist health equipment

Using oxygen

If someone you care for is using supplemental oxygen at home, it is vital you put in place safety mechanisms. Oxygen is a combustible gas and has a risk of fire when not used properly. Oxygen is highly explosive when exposed to naked flame or dirt and grease.

Oxygen may be prescribed by a doctor as part of a treatment program. Oxygen should not be administered or used without direction from a medical professional. Medical oxygen use is often associated with smoking-related lung diseases and users often continue to smoke.

The oxygen-rich atmosphere stays within clothing and furnishings creating an increased risk of rapid-fire spread which is a particular risk for smokers.

Medical oxygen cylinders also pose a risk to firefighters and the user in the event of a fire because the heat can cause the cylinders to explode.

We strongly recommend those who have medical oxygen in their property receive a home safety visit as soon as possible.

Please note that you no longer need to inform the fire service if you use oxygen, unless you wish to request a home visit.

Safety tips when using oxygen

1. Be careful where you store it. Oxygen cylinders must be stored in an upright position safely out of direct sunlight in a well-ventilated area that is dry and away from any heat sources. The storage area should not be used to store paint, oil, grease or any domestic heating gases or other combustible materials.
2. Smoke detectors. We recommend that each floor of your home has a working smoke alarm and that they are tested at least once a month.
3. Keep the area well ventilated. Keep internal doors open when using oxygen. Gases can build up and concentrate in a closed room or a confined space but can easily be dispersed in a well-ventilated room.
4. Never smoke. Never smoke or let anyone else smoke near you while you are using your oxygen. If you must smoke, smoke outside and never smoke in bed. Do not use your oxygen supply for at least 30 minutes after you have finished smoking to reduce your risk.

Good practice

• turn off your oxygen supply when you have finished using it
• never use oxygen equipment near open fires or naked flames
• never cook whilst using your oxygen
• never use any electrical appliances such as electric razors or hairdryers whilst using your oxygen
• avoid using barrier medications/creams that contain emollients, petroleum, oil or paraffin.
• never use aerosol sprays such as deodorant or hairspray when using oxygen
• in the event of a fire, call 999 and inform the operator that you have oxygen on your premises.

Dynamic airflow pressure relieving mattresses (and overlays)

These are provided for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers (bedsores) to people who spend extended periods of time in bed or are bedbound due to illness or impaired mobility.

The mattress is filled with air by a pump that adjusts pressure according to the patient’s needs.

When punctured by a heat source such as a match the escaping airflow can cause a fire to spread rapidly. The emergency battery backup may continue to pump air which can cause the fire to burn longer.

Safety tips when using an airflow mattress

• Never smoke near an airflow mattress, or let the person you care for smoke in bed.
• Keep ignition sources (candles, incense sticks or oil burner) away from airflow mattresses.
• Never use an electric blanket on an airflow mattress.
• Ensure that electrical equipment is well maintained and kept at a safe distance from airflow mattresses.
• Keep fires and heaters away from airflow mattresses.
• Never place hot items like hairdryers or hair straighteners on airflow mattresses.

Incontinence products

Incontinence pads and pants help people live at home with more dignity. However, these products are often supplied in large quantities. They can be bulky and difficult to store, can catch fire, and will add fuel to a developing fire.

People who are bed or chair-bound, using incontinence products that cover an area outside their clothing, are at higher risk of fire when combined with smoking. Ash or embers can land on the pads and easily catch fire.

Safety tips

• Store incontinence products away from heat sources such as heaters, candles, chargers, or anywhere else that they are likely to be subject to heat or flame.
• Try not to store the supplies all in one place – ideally not next to the person’s bed or chair.
• Do not smoke while using exposed incontinence products. If a person does smoke, ensure the exposed area of the incontinence pad is covered with a fire retardant blanket.