MedGroup
October 2011
Oxygen Fire Safety
Oxygen does not explode, but it does support combustion. That means anything that would normally smolder or be difficult to ignite will burn easily when extra oxygen is available. Be careful around stoves, and never, ever smoke when using your oxygen.
What to do Before a Fire Occurs . . .
• Have you given thought to how you would get out of a burning apartment or home? Identify and determine the nearest emergency exit or exits within your home. It is important to always know the safest and quickest exit from any location you are in and it should always be based on your physical capabilities.
• Install heat or smoke detectors throughout your home. Key locations for smoke alarms are: the kitchen, basement, storage areas, trash areas, accessible attics, sleeping areas and hallways. Please note that there are various types of smoke alarms. Heat and smoke detectors can reduce the chance of dying in a home fire by approximately 60%. It is important to make sure your smoke alarms are functioning properly. Make sure all smoke alarms are kept cleaned and vacuumed regularly to remove dust particles. In addition to this, you should test the batteries monthly and replace batteries at least once a year to ensure that they are working properly. If you are unable to perform these tasks yourself, ask your friends, family members, building managers, or someone from the fire department to help you out.
