Using your oxygen safely is very important.  We recommend you take your time and familiarise yourself with the safety instructions in the literature given to you by your technician when they installed your oxygen equipment.

Patients must not smoke whilst undergoing oxygen therapy. Electronic Cigarettes should also not be used whilst a patient is undergoing oxygen therapy. Additionally, batteries of electronic cigarettes should not be charged in the vicinity of a patient undergoing oxygen therapy or the oxygen source itself.

If you require further assistance or have any questions about your oxygen equipment, you can contact our patient helpline on:

0800 833 531 (freephone)

For emergencies our staff are available 24 hours per day, however for general enquires please contact our staff during office hours.

NOTE: in case of fire immediately vacate the premises. Only take your oxygen equipment with you if it does not hinder you. Stay out of the premises. Call the Fire and Rescue Services and advise them you are using medical oxygen. If you feel unwell, or you require emergency oxygen, request an ambulance immediately by phoning 999.

USEFUL HELP & ADVICE

• Oxygen is a fire accelerator and can cause rapid burning

  Higher concentrations of oxygen than normal in the environment can have three major effects:

  1. 1. Substances which would not normally catch fire may actually do so.
     2. Substances which will not normally burn or catch fire will do so more easily.
     3. Oxygen is heavier than air and can saturate fabrics. Once they are oxygen rich they are much more flammable.
• DO's with Oxygen

  DO keep at least 10 feet (3m) away from sparking objects, naked sources of flame, flammable materials and extreme heat.

  DO ensure you turn off your oxygen supply when not in use, even for short durations.

  DO allow at least 30 minutes after you have removed your oxygen before, for example, cooking. Oxygen may build up in material and make it more flammable, so allow time for it to be dispersed.

  DO ensure oxygen is used in a well-ventilated room and not in a confined area.

  DO ensure the firebreak (provided on concentrator machines only) remains in the tubing as left by the Vivisol technician. This piece of white plastic should have the blue arrow pointing towards the patient. It helps stop a fire spreading up the tubing if one end catches alight.

• DON’T’s With Oxygen

  DO NOT smoke or let anyone else smoke near you. Not only will smoking aggravate your condition, it is extremely dangerous when oxygen is being used.

  DO NOT use or let anyone else use electronic cigarettes near you whilst undergoing oxygen therapy. Additionally, batteries of electronic cigarettes should not be charged in the vicinity of a patient undergoing oxygen therapy or the oxygen source itself.

  DO NOT apply oil or grease to the equipment. Keep all equipment clean using a damp cloth and a mild cleaning fluid, allowing equipment to dry properly before using. Ensure your hands are clean when handling your equipment.

  DO NOT use face or hand creams that are oil based. Only use water based creams. If unsure seek advice from your pharmacist.

  When using your oxygen, DO NOT leave your mask or cannula in your lap or lying on the bed or chair for any length of time.

  DO NOT let your tubing get trapped as this can reduce the flow of oxygen or even stop it. The maximum length of tubing we can install is 15m so always take care not to slip or trip up over your tubing. Be extra careful around doors and furniture.

  DO NOT let anyone tamper with your oxygen equipment or change the flow rate ordered by your Healthcare Professional.

  DO NOT cover or hang items on your concentrator or other oxygen equipment.