Oxygen is a life saver but can also be extremely dangerous we have create an oxygen safety “DO” and “DO NOT” list. Remember that oxygen is a drug, very flammable and is only to be used as prescribed and directed by your doctor.
Oxygen Safety DO NOT:
- Change the oxygen setting your doctor has prescribed until contacting them first
- Smoke while using oxygen. This includes E-cigarettes
- Charge batteries for E-cigarettes close to the oxygen source
- Use electronic equipment such as vacuum cleaners or electric blankets while using oxygen. These need to be at least 5 feet from oxygen
- Use more than 50 feet of oxygen tubing. For portable oxygen concentrators, no more than 30 feet of tubing. This includes the nasal cannula tubing as well
- Use oil, petroleum jelly or grease near the oxygen equipment. This includes using Vaseline on or around the nasal cannula or your nose
- Use aerosol sprays, face creams, hair sprays or oily lotions
- Allow anyone except a trained professional to attempt to repair, use or adjust the equipment
- Store cylinders in a closet or leave free-standing. They must always be secured in a rack, cart, or stand.
- Store oxygen near heaters, radiators or heating vents
- Cover oxygen tubing with rugs
- Transport oxygen in the trunk of a car
- Leave oxygen on while not in use
- Touch metal fittings on liquid oxygen with bare hands
Oxygen Safety DO:
- Transport oxygen in the back seat of your car on the floor and properly secured. You can wrap them in a towel or blanket if they are rolling around
- Open a window about an inch when traveling with oxygen
- Keep liquid oxygen upright when traveling