• An oxygen tank used by patients with respiratory ailmentsoxygen cylinder image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com
  
  Oxygen is prescribed to patients with respiratory problems and lung disease as well as patients with severe heart failure. Plastic tubing carries oxygen from an oxygen tank into the patient's nostrils or into a tracheostomy. Patients who require oxygen at home have both portable oxygen tanks equipped with wheels for moving around the house and a larger stationary tank. Following precautions on handling and storing the oxygen is vital for the safety of everyone in the home.
  
  

Fire Safety

• Oxygen causes fires to burn quickly, feeding the fire to produce larger flames. Keep fire extinguishers in every room where oxygen is present. Have the fire extinguisher routinely checked by the fire department to ensure that it is working properly. The home should also be smoke free. If anyone in the home is a smoker, have him smoke outside away from all oxygen tanks.
  
  When using oxygen, remain at least six feet away from space heaters, electrical motors, baseboard heating units, hairdryers, electrical appliances, fireplaces, wood and coal stoves. Never use an electric blanket.
  
  

Kitchen Safety

• Avoid cooking flames when using oxygen therapy.gas image by Danil Vachegin from Fotolia.com
  
  Keep oxygen away from ovens and stove tops. Do not cook while using oxygen therapy. Beware splattering fat and grease that could fly across the room near an oxygen tank. Electric ovens and ranges are unsafe near oxygen because of heat buildup. Microwave ovens are the safest appliances for cooking when oxygen is present in the home.
  
  

Oxygen Tank Storage

• Store oxygen tanks out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources such as radiators, furnaces or space heaters. Secure the oxygen cylinders in an upright position in the oxygen holder. Store the tanks in a ventilated area where air can circulate. Avoid storing oxygen in closed closets, trunks or boxes. Keep all cleaning products, alcohol and grease away from stored oxygen tanks. Never cover oxygen tanks with clothing, tarps, sheets or other materials.
  
  

Product Safety

• Use water based products and skin lotions like aloe vera and K-Y jelly for dry skin. Avoid using highly combustible petroleum-based products such as Vaseline and lip balm near the nose and face to avoid potential burns. Do not use other combustible products like aerosol sprays, hair sprays or deodorants and alcohol products when near oxygen.