Why is it important to store emergency oxygen away from heat and flame?

The importance of storing emergency oxygen away from heat and flame is primarily due to the fact that oxygen itself is not combustible; however, it is a supporter of combustion. This means that while oxygen doesn’t catch fire or burn on its own, it greatly enhances the burning of combustible materials. When exposed to high temperatures or flames, oxygen can increase the intensity and spread of a fire, making it much more dangerous.

Storing oxygen near heat sources poses a significant risk because if a fire were to start in the vicinity of the oxygen supply, the oxygen could feed the fire, leading to uncontrolled and potentially catastrophic situations. Therefore, it is crucial to keep emergency oxygen containers in a cool, stable environment, away from any sources of heat or flames, to ensure safety and prevent any risk of fire escalation.

The other options do not adequately address the primary concern regarding fire risk associated with oxygen storage.