Can oxygen masks be used for non-emergency purposes?

Oxygen masks are generally not used for daily breathing in non-emergency situations. ‌

Oxygen masks are mainly devices that provide oxygen breathing for aircraft passengers in emergency situations. Under normal flight conditions, passengers do not need to use oxygen masks because the air in the aircraft cabin is sufficient to supply passengers' breathing needs. Only when the aircraft encounters an emergency, such as hypoxia at high altitude, will the oxygen mask automatically supply oxygen or be instructed to use by the flight attendant. ‌

Use scenarios and operation methods of oxygen masks on aircraft ‌

On aircraft, oxygen masks are usually fixed above the seats or passengers' heads and connected to the oxygen supply system in the aircraft cabin through hoses. When an emergency occurs on the aircraft, the flight attendant will prompt passengers to quickly press the oxygen mask through broadcasts and gestures, and the oxygen mask will automatically hang from the top of the ceiling. Passengers need to put the oxygen mask on their heads and press down the two pull rings below. At this time, passengers can breathe oxygen through the oxygen mask. ‌

Use scenarios and operation methods of medical oxygen masks ‌

Medical oxygen masks are mainly used for medical first aid, usually in cases of shortness of breath or suffocation. The steps to use a medical oxygen mask include:

Connect the oxygen storage mask to the oxygen cylinder, making sure the connection is tight to avoid leakage.

Place the mask on the patient's mouth and nose, making sure it covers the mouth and nose.

Open the oxygen cylinder and control the oxygen flow to meet the patient's needs.

Observe whether the patient is breathing oxygen normally. If abnormal, stop using it immediately.

Oxygen masks are mainly used for oxygen supply in emergency situations and are not suitable for daily breathing.