Anthony Yates
A Texas woman is in the hospital after she reportedly lit a cigarette while on oxygen.
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What happened: According to a news release by Trinity County Sheriff Woody Wallace, officers responded to reports of an explosion at around 4 AM on September 30. The incident occurred at the Senior Apartments in Groverton.
- Authorities received a 911 call explaining that a woman on oxygen lit a cigarette, which triggered the blast. Multiple emergency services responded, including the fire department and police. EMS ultimately airlifted the woman from the area and transported her to the hospital.
- The sheriff explained that this is not the department’s first time dealing with similar incidents. “Smoking while using oxygen is extremely dangerous,” he said. Wallace noted several other instances over the years, saying, “These situations almost always end badly.”
The Texas Sheriff Offered Advice To Prevent Oxygen Explosions
Better safe than sorry: The sheriff concluded the news release with advice for people with older relatives.
- “If you have older parents, grandparents, or loved ones who are on oxygen, please do not allow them to light a cigarette or have any open flame near oxygen hoses or tanks,” he pleaded. “This simple precaution can save lives.” He asked readers to keep the injured woman in their prayers.
A deadly explosion incident: Depending on where you live, oxygen may not be the only gas you should be aware of. Back in July, two sisters from Massachusetts were fatally injured in an explosion at their camper, per Minq. They were reportedly celebrating a birthday at the time.
- The Maine State Fire Marshall revealed that they transported two women to the hospital with “severe burn injuries.” Authorities believe LP gas leaked into and underneath the camper. It ignited when one of the sisters lit a candle.
- Local reports suggest that the sisters smelled a “garlic odor” in the air. They allegedly lit the candle in an attempt to mask the smell. An updated report by the Fire Marshall explained that both sisters succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.
- Authorities recommended that people install gas detectors around natural or propane gas sources. “These detectors can alert occupants to dangerous gas buildup and provide valuable time to evacuate or take safety precautions,” they advised.
