Power outages can be frustrating and inconvenient for anyone, but if you depend on supplemental oxygen, they can be downright dangerous or life-threatening. Since hurricane and storm season is upon us, we wanted to share a few preventative measures you can take to prepare for a potential outage, and ensure that you have access to the oxygen you need.
1. Contact your power company
Some power companies offer programs to help customers who rely on electricity for medical reasons. For example, Salt River Project here in Phoenix has a Medical Preparedness Program that can help customers access uninterrupted power sources if they rely on electricity for medical necessities at home.
2. Make backup plans.
Even if your power company doesn’t have a specific program to help you maintain uninterrupted power in case of a storm or outage, you can still prepare by keeping a stock of backup batteries and cylinders on hand. It’s also a good idea to have the address of a health shelter saved, in case you need to access a location with power from a backup generator. Your health care provider can help you find a health shelter or backup location you can access in the event of an outage at your home.
3. Consider investing in your own backup generator.
You may also want to consider investing in your own backup generator. Most oxygen concentrators run on 400-1500 watts, and there are a variety of options on the market, from gas to solar, that can keep them running in the event of a power outage.
4. Understand your device’s features!
Some portable oxygen concentrators can last as long as 5+ hours on a single charge, so it’s important to know your device well, and have a good understanding of how long it can last between charges. Some devices also have features that allow you to charge in your car. A DC power adapter charging cord, which connects to your car via the cigarette lighter, is included with our portable oxygen concentrators. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for unit-specific information on how to use your car charger.
As the oldest portable oxygen concentrator provider in the U.S., OxiMedical has helped thousands of people with COPD and other respiratory conditions regain their freedom and live their lives to the fullest. If you need help finding the best portable oxygen concentrator to fit your needs, please call us at 855-847-4544.
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