March 18, 2026 — The Town of Montville Volunteer Fire Service is urging residents to recognize the extreme fire hazards associated with smoking near medical oxygen. Officials emphasize that oxygen-rich environments significantly accelerate combustion, causing fires to ignite more easily and burn hotter and faster than under normal conditions. Even a small spark, such as from a cigarette, can lead to a rapidly spreading and potentially deadly fire when oxygen is in use. The department stresses that there is no safe way to smoke in a home where medical oxygen is present and encourages residents to strictly follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their families.