Page 29 - Norco Patient Orientation Handbook e-book

4. The use of extension cords on electrical devices should be prohibited unless the extension cords are UL
approved and they have adequate wire size for the current load they carry. An extension cord connected to
electrical home medical equipment and plugged into multiple receptacles may result in direct circuit
overload. Overloaded circuits may cause excessive heat that could be the direct cause of blown fuses, open
circuit breakers, or an electrical fire. Limit use of extension cords whenever possible.
5. If the home has a fuse box as opposed to a circuit breaker system, never use a fuse that exceeds the rating
for that particular circuit. When in doubt, contact a qualified electrician for advice.

FIRE SAFETY

The local Fire Department is the best resource to help make a home fire safety plan. Here are some general
guidelines:

1. Create an escape plan for the home; include at least one alternate escape route.
2. If an uncontrollable fire occurs, leave the home immediately; do not waste time gathering any belongings.
3. There should be some type of call system for the elderly to obtain assistance, like a bell or a whistle that can
be used in the case of an emergency.

“Create an escape plan for the home; include

at least one alternate escape route”

4. Make a plan to assist the elderly and children escape from the emergency.
5. If a fire is suspected in the home, and your bedroom door is closed, first feel the door or doorknob. If it is
warm or hot do not open it. Escape from the room via the alternate escape route.
6. Do not panic, try to stay as calm as possible.

FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION

1. No open flames or heated devices around any oxygen delivery system.
2. NEVER SMOKE IN BED.
3. Have a fire extinguisher located in the kitchen and in the garage or work area. Keep the stove clean of
grease and other flammable materials.
4. Make sure all electrical outlets are safe and not overloaded. Insure all electrical and gas room heaters are off
when not in use.
5. Store all matches in a box or container.
6. Locate lit candles in an area of minimal fire hazard, and remember to extinguish them before leaving the
room.
7. Electronic cigarettes should not be used while 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.
8. Items containing wood should be stored at least 36 inches away from a stove or furnace. Make sure clothing,
drapes, curtains, and other potentially flammable items are a safe distance away.
9. Install smoke detectors in at least two different areas in the home. They should be installed on the ceiling or
a high wall in the home. To assure the detectors are working, the U.S. Product Safety Commission
recommends that you depress the test button at least every month. Replace the battery annually or when
there are intermittent beeps, which may indicate a weak battery. Refer to the owner’s manual of the
particular detector for recommended maintenance.