Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Safe Oxygen Tips

If you use oxygen to help manage the symptoms of COPD, be sure to handle it with care. It’s essential to follow these safety tips:

• Don’t smoke while using oxygen, and don’t let anyone smoke near you.

• Put up no smoking signs in your home where you most often use the oxygen.

• Stay at least 5 feet away from any open flame, such as a gas stove, candle, or cigarette lighter.

• Don’t use oil-based products such as creams and lotions that contain petroleum.

• If you take your portable oxygen unit to a restaurant, sit in the nonsmoking section.

• Store canisters upright in an approved cart or secure storage device in a well-ventilated location. Keep them at least 8 feet away from a water heater or other appliance that gives off heat or sparks.

• When not using your oxygen, be sure to turn off the supply valve.