A fire safety guide to use using oxygen at home

Oxygen therapy means using an oxygen cylinder or a machine to breathe in air that contains more oxygen than normal.  If used sensibly, oxygen can be safe. However, used incorrectly it will cause severe burns which, which can prove fatal.
 
Always follow the safety guidance from your oxygen cylinder or concentrator supplier.
 
Never allow oxygen to be released into the room when not in use.
 
Do not use oxygen next to:

• Cigarettes.

• Lighters and matches.

• Cooking appliances.

• Heating appliances.

• Grease or oil-based products.

For further fire safety advice, contact your nearest fire station or phone 0800 389 0053.

Is it safe to use oxygen at home?

YES. However, you must use it safely. Oxygen is a fire hazard.  Please follow these safety measures:

• Never smoke or let anyone else smoke while you are using oxygen. 

• Turn off the equipment when not in use and ventilate the room.

• Keep oxygen at least six feet (two metres) away from flames or heat sources such as gas cookers, paraffin or gas heaters, candles, cigarettes, cigars and fireplaces.

• Do not use flammable products such as cleaning fluid, paint thinner, petroleum based creams or aerosols while you are using oxygen.

• Keep oxygen cylinders upright. Make sure they do not fall over and get damaged, especially when travelling in a vehicle. Ask your supplier for a transport box.

• Ensure you have working smoke alarms in your home. 

If you use oxygen at home, please phone 0800 389 0053 for fire safety advice and to book a free home safety visit,  where one of our team will visit your home to give you fire advice and to fit free smoke alarms (if needed).

Leaflet - Using Oxygen at home

Leaflet - fire safety information for users of oxygen at home (new window, PDF 232KB)