Air pressure relief mattresses

Air pressure mattresses, also called airflow mattresses, are filled with air by a pump. This allows for the air to adjust the pressure according to the patient's needs. 

They are typically used by people who are bedbound or have low-mobility. The mattress is designed to help those at high-risk of developing pressure sores or ulcers. 

As these mattresses contain pressurised air, they can be a fire risk if not handled safely. If punctured by a heat source, the escaping airflow could cause a fire which would spread rapidly. The emergency battery backup may continue to pump air which can cause a fire to burn longer. 

If anyone in your home uses an air pressure mattress, or overlay, make sure you:

• never smoke in bed or near an air-pressure mattress
• keep ignition sources such as candles, incense sticks or oil burners away from the mattress
• keep fires and heaters away from the mattress
• never use an electric blanket on the mattress 
• never place hot items like hair dryers or hair straighteners on the mattress
• ensure that electrical equipment is well maintained and kept at a safe distance from the mattress