Do:
- Keep your device (concentrator or cylinders), at least 3 metres away from any appliances that use an open flame like a gas cooker, multi fuel burner, gas fire, candles, camping cooker etc.
- Turn off your oxygen supply fully, when you’re not using it.
- Keep your device in a well-ventilated room.
- Make sure oxygen equipment is used in a well-ventilated room and not in a confined area.
- Install fire alarms and smoke detectors in your home and make sure they’re working.
- Tell your local fire service that you have oxygen at home who can then arrange a free fire safety check.
- Keep your device/cylinders at least 1.5 metres away from electrical appliances, like a television or hair dryer.
- Keep your device (concentrator/POC), at least 1.5 metres away from heat sources, like radiators or electrical heaters to prevent overheating.
- Keep all equipment clean using a damp cloth and a mild detergent, allowing equipment to dry fully.
- Take care not to slip or trip up over your tubing – be extra careful around doors and furniture.
Don’t
- Do not smoke, or let anyone else smoke near you, when using your device or oxygen cylinders.
- Do not use electronic cigarettes while you are undergoing oxygen therapy (using your oxygen).
- Do not charge electronic cigarette batteries near the device or cylinders.
- Do not charge electronic scooter batteries near your device or cylinders.
- Do not use face or hand creams that are oil-based like Vasaline – if you’re unsure ask your pharmacist.
- Do not let your tubing get trapped or kinked as this can/will reduce the flow of oxygen to you, or even stop it.
- Do not let anyone tamper with your oxygen equipment or change the flow rate prescribed by your Specialist Respiratory Nurse.
- Do not cover or hang items on your device, (concentrator/POC), blocking air flow and causing overheating.
- Do not use flammable liquids, like cleaning fluid, paint thinner or aerosols, when using your device
Additional Safety:
When using your oxygen equipment/ cylinders the atmosphere around you will have increased oxygenation that takes up to 15 minutes to disperse, so remain vigilant to introducing any naked flames such as candles, in an area you have just been occupying and using oxygen.