Wednesday December, 17 2025 @ 09:14

Nature: Medical Emergency

City: Millsboro

On Wednesday morning, December 17^th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted to assist on a medical emergency incident involving reported burns associated with smoking while on oxygen. Additional emergency alerts included the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad and the Sussex County Paramedics.

Emergency response units from Indian River included Rescue 80 and the Delaware State Fire Police.

All emergency response units from the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company were cancelled while enroute to the incident location.

What are the dangers of smoking when oxygen is in use?

First and foremost, smoking in a home or facility where oxygen is in use is a serious fire hazard. Oxygen supports combustion, making any flammable substance, including cigarettes, more likely to ignite and burn. When a lit cigarette comes into contact with oxygen-rich air or oxygen equipment, the risk of fire significantly increases. Smoking near oxygen tanks, concentrators, or masks is an extremely dangerous practice that can lead to catastrophic consequences. Even a small spark can trigger an explosive fire, causing severe injuries, property damage, and loss of life.