What specific safety precaution should be followed when using flammable anesthetic gases?

When using flammable anesthetic gases, one of the most crucial safety precautions is to avoid the use of ignition sources near the gas delivery areas. This precaution is vital because anesthetic gases can be highly flammable, and any source of ignition—such as sparks, flames, electrical equipment, or smoking materials—can lead to fire or explosion hazards. Maintaining a safe distance from potential ignition sources ensures that the risk of fire is minimized, thus protecting both patients and medical staff during anesthetic procedures.

While well-ventilated areas, dilution of gases with air, and using non-flammable alternatives are also important safety considerations, they do not specifically address the immediate risk posed by ignition sources. Proper ventilation can help disperse anesthetic gases and reduce their concentration in the air but does not negate the flammability risk when ignition is present. Similarly, having a gas diluted with air or switching to non-flammable gases can be helpful strategies but do not replace the imperative to eliminate ignition sources in environments where flammable gases are in use.