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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

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Bad Combo: Oxygen & Cigarettes

Judy Poirier, of Coeur d’Alene, smoked for more than six decades, but quit a few months after being prescribed oxygen about two years ago for health-related problems.  (Shawn Gust / Coeur d'Alene Press)
Judy Poirier, of Coeur d’Alene, smoked for more than six decades, but quit a few months after being prescribed oxygen about two years ago for health-related problems. (Shawn Gust / Coeur d'Alene Press)

Pat Benes was surprised and frightened when she recently witnessed a man smoking a cigarette while using oxygen at the Coeur d'Alene Casino. "I know the dangers of it, and I was appalled," said the Post Falls woman. "I went to my room and called the front desk immediately." Benes said the hotel attendant was only able to offer an apology and told Benes the casino has no rule in place for this type of situation. It is estimated that more than a million people in the U.S. use medical oxygen. According to the safety handbook patients are given by Ironwood Medical Supply in Coeur d'Alene, oxygen is very safe when used properly/Jamie Sedlmayer, Coeur d'Alene Press. More here.

Question: I'm always amazed to see someone smoking while using oxygen. Thoughts?



D.F. Oliveria
D.F. (Dave) Oliveria joined The Spokesman-Review in 1984. He currently is a columnist and compiles the Huckleberries Online blog and writes about North Idaho in his Huckleberries column.

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