Oxygen Safety Guide
- DO NOT SMOKE – do not let OTHERS smoke while oxygen is in use
- Oxygen is not explosive, but does support combustion
- Post your Non-Smoking signs in a prominent place – near the entrances of your home
- When using oxygen, stay at least 5 feet away from any open flame – gas stove, candles,
- fireplaces, etc.
- If you must cook while using oxygen, be careful that the tubing stays away from heat
- source; use the microwave whenever possible
- Keep oxygen away from heat producing or possible spark producing electrical
- appliances – hairdryers, razors, etc.
- Do not use flammable products while using oxygen – aerosol sprays or petroleum (oil)
- based products
- Use only water-based lotions, creams, and lubricants on your hands and face
- Never attach an extension cord to an oxygen concentrator
- Never run electrical cords under carpeting or rugs
- Cotton bedding is preferable (to prevent possible static electricity)
- Fire extinguishers and working smoke detectors are highly recommended
- Open the cylinder valve slowly, turn regulator off when oxygen is not in use
- Cylinders must be secured and stored only in a cart or lying down; never “prop” a cylinder against the wall, furniture, etc.
- Store oxygen cylinders in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources; not in closets or the trunk of your car
- While driving, be sure all cylinders are secured, preferably on the floor of the back seat
- When using an oxygen concentrator, proper ventilation around the machine is necessary at least 12 inches away from walls, furniture, or beds – do not put the concentrator in a closet
- When using liquid oxygen do not touch any “frosted” parts, frostbite may occur
- Do not permit children or untrained persons to handle or operate oxygen systems
- Know your usage time on any portable system, and plan accordingly
Be sure you understand and follow your physician’s orders for your oxygen use
Always have the phone number for AtHome Medical handy: 1-800-287-0643
If you have any questions about the safe use of oxygen, contact AtHome Medical
Falls Safety Guide
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older people. More than half of all falls occur in the home. Discuss FALL PREVENTION with your physician. Take necessary steps to make your home safe.
• Remove all throw rugs; make sure all area rugs are secured with non-slip pads or double-sided tape.
• Do NOT store or stack items on the floor or steps.
• Set up a night light in the bedroom, hallway, and bathroom.
• Set up a lamp close to my bed so I can turn it on before rising.
• Always turn on the light before entering a dark room.
• Add to the shower/tub a non-slip mat or confirm the surface is non-slip.
• Check to confirm that the bathroom towel rack is sturdy.
• Check that all stairways, inside and outside my home, have sturdy handrails.
• Be careful when taking medications which might cause me to become dizzy or drowsy.
• Assure that you wear your glasses when moving about the home.
• Never rush to answer the phone or the door.
• Never use a step stool or ladder that is not sturdy.
• Be careful not to block your vision when carrying packages.
• Remove all electrical cords on the floor that may be a "tripping" hazard.
• Always remember to wipe up spills immediately.
Important:
- If you use oxygen – be sure you know exactly where the tubing is before you stand up
- and move about; gather tubing in your hand as you walk, keeping it behind you.
- Additional concerns if children live in the home or are visiting:
- Be sure stairways are gated.
- Be sure windows screens are secured.
For more information you may contact:
• Administration on Aging www.all.gov
• American Association of Retired Persons www.aarp.org
• US Consumer Product Safety Commission www.cpsc.gov