For individuals relying on oxygen therapy at home, a power outage can be more than just an inconvenience—it can be a serious safety concern. That’s why it’s important to have a clear plan in place. At Complete Care, we ensure all of our oxygen patients are equipped with a backup cylinder at no cost, but knowing what to do in the moment is key.

Here’s what to do if your power goes out and you’re on home oxygen:

Switch to Your Backup Oxygen Cylinder Immediately

As soon as the power goes out, switch from your oxygen concentrator to your backup oxygen cylinder. This should be kept in an easily accessible location at all times. Complete Care provides a backup tank to every oxygen patient for exactly this reason—free of charge.

Tip: Familiarize yourself (and your caregiver, if you have one) with how to connect your nasal cannula or mask to the backup cylinder ahead of time. Practice when the power is on, so you’re not scrambling during an emergency.

Turn On a Generator If You Have One

If your home is equipped with a generator, turn it on once it's safe to do so. Then, switch your oxygen concentrator back to the powered source to conserve your backup cylinder for future use.‍

Tip: Make sure your generator is properly ventilated and never run it indoors. If you don’t have a generator but are considering one, we recommend choosing one that’s compatible with medical equipment.

Call Us If Your Backup Tank Runs Low

If your cylinder is running low and the power is still out, call Complete Care right away. We’re available for urgent needs and will do everything we can to get you additional oxygen support promptly.

Tip: Check your patient welcome packet for after-hours support information. If you need assistance, call 800-239-5097

Additional Safety Tips

  • Keep a flashlight nearby your oxygen equipment—not candles.
  • Avoid using battery-powered fans or space heaters near oxygen tanks.
  • Notify your power company that someone in your home uses life-sustaining medical equipment. Many utilities offer medical priority restoration services.
  • Label your oxygen equipment clearly, so first responders can assist you quickly if needed.

Stay Prepared. Stay Safe.

At Complete Care, your safety is our priority. Power outages are unpredictable, but your oxygen therapy shouldn’t be. If you have questions about your backup cylinder, generator use, or how to prepare your home for emergencies, give us a call today.

Need help now or want to review your emergency plan?
Reach out to our team—we’re here to help before, during, and after the storm.

Complete Care is a premier Home Medical Equipment (HME/DME) company serving the Northeast Alabama region. With a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for our valued customers, we specialize in providing a comprehensive range of medical equipment and supplies for individuals in need of in-home healthcare solutions.