2010 News

October 15, 2010

Warning on Fire Dangers from Home Oxygen Use
After fire today in Hilltown, Bucks County Fire Marshal’s Office again cautions against smoking while using O2 oxygen

In light of today’s fire on Spur Rd in Hilltown Township, the Bucks County Fire Marshal’s Office would like to again warn residents about the extreme caution to be taken when using oxygen in the home. 

Case in point is the fire today in which an elderly man suffered burns and smoke inhalation after he fell asleep with a lit cigarette while using home oxygen. Not only was he injured but his apartment, along with six others, was damaged, and a two bay garage was completely gutted.

Home oxygen equipment can save lives, and allow patients with breathing problems to stay in their homes and lead fuller lives. However, home oxygen can also be extremely dangerous.

"Smoking in homes where people use oxygen starts many fires each year causing deaths and injuries," says Assistant Bucks County Fire Marshal Jonathan Sivils. "These fires can force entire families and other building tenants out of their homes, destroy a lifetime's possessions, and cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage."

Home oxygen is pure O2, a fuel necessary for a fire to burn. When exposed to an open flame or spark, pure oxygen can ignite.  If a fire is already burning around home oxygen, an O2 bottle can suddenly and violently explode or release pressurized oxygen.  This gives the fire more fuel, making it far larger and more dangerous.

A National Fire Prevention Association study reports that from 2003 to 2006, 1,190 people were burned per year in the U.S. from fires associated with home medical oxygen, and 73 percent of those fires were caused by smoking, with 89 percent of victims suffering facial burns. Oxygen users should also stay away from candles, gas grills, stoves, and any open flames. 

It's a very dangerous thing. This is an issue that is extremely dangerous in homes, but like most fires and burns, they can be prevented by people taking some very simple steps.