Why Home Oxygen Fire Safety Matters

Home oxygen therapy (H.O.T.) is a widely utilized treatment for over 1.5 million Americans across the United States, according to a study published by the American Thoracic Society. Most home oxygen patients need supplemental oxygen because they are diagnosed with lung disease, often because of smoking. Smoking while using home oxygen is a leading cause of fires involving home oxygen therapy. The CDC reports that smoking-related fires are the top cause of deaths from residential fires in the U.S.

In the U.S., an estimated 100 to 150 people die each year from fires involving home oxygen use, with over 1,000 more suffering severe burn injuries. In addition, around one in four home oxygen fires result in a whole house fire, often affecting relatives and neighbors. These fires not only put patients and families at risk but first responders too, with some reporting serious injuries and death*. 

How Firebreaks Help Prevent Tragedies

Firebreaks, also known as thermal fuses, are small but essential safety devices designed to stop the spread of fire in home oxygen tubing. When exposed to flames, firebreaks automatically shut off the oxygen supply, preventing the fire from intensifying. These devices are mandated by the Veterans Health Administration (VA), and they are required or recommended in 25 countries worldwide*.

Firebreaks, which play a key role in home oxygen safety, are available to home healthcare dealers through suppliers like Applied Home Healthcare Equipment.

Despite their proven effectiveness, firebreaks are not universally provided to home oxygen patients in the U.S. due to cost barriers. Advocating for state Health and Human Services departments to include firebreaks in Medicaid coverage can improve access and safety.

The Efforts of Chief Reynolds in HOT Safety Advocacy

Nevada, Iowa Fire Chief Raymond Reynolds has been a leading advocate for improving home oxygen safety measures. After experiencing two fatal home oxygen fires in his community, Chief Reynolds has pushed for national fire code improvements, ISO safety standards, and state-by-state Medicaid reimbursement for thermal fuses.

His work emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to fire prevention, rather than reacting to tragedies. By encouraging Health and Human Services departments in every state across the country to include firebreaks in state Medicaid reimbursement, he is helping to protect both patients and emergency responders from the devastating impact of home oxygen fires.

States Leading the Way: Medicaid Reimbursement for Firebreaks

Recognizing the need for improved fire safety in home oxygen therapy, several states have joined the initiative to reimburse firebreaks through Medicaid. As of now, Iowa, Washington, North Dakota, Missouri, and Kansas have approved Medicaid reimbursement for firebreaks. This reimbursement helps home medical equipment providers make firebreaks more accessible to patients by offsetting some of the costs associated with providing these safety devices.

Why Every State Should Reimburse Firebreaks

Firebreaks are a cost-effective, life-saving solution for preventing home oxygen fires. The financial burden of these fires—including medical costs, property damage, and emergency response—far outweighs the minimal expense of providing firebreaks to every home oxygen patient. When states include firebreaks in Medicaid coverage, they are making an investment in safety and prevention that benefits everyone.

States that have yet to adopt this policy should look to Iowa, Washington, North Dakota, Missouri, and Kansas as examples of how Medicaid reimbursement can help save lives. Advocacy efforts like those led by Chief Reynolds are crucial in expanding this initiative nationwide.

Take Action

If you are a healthcare provider, policymaker, or concerned citizen, you can help push for Medicaid reimbursement for firebreaks in your state. Contact your state’s Health and Human Services department, support local advocacy efforts, and spread awareness about the importance of home oxygen fire safety.

To get involved, reach out to Chief Reynolds at rreynolds@cityofnevadaiowa.org. Let’s work together to make home oxygen therapy safer for all.

This article is for informational and advocacy purposes only. Policy decisions should be made based on official state regulations and expert consultation.

*All statistics in paragraphs with asterisks next to them are courtesy of Firebreaks.info created by BPR Medical Ltd.