Why is oxygen considered a fire hazard?

Oxygen is considered a fire hazard primarily because it supports combustion and can exacerbate fires. While oxygen itself is not flammable, it significantly increases the intensity of fires by enhancing the combustion process. When oxygen is present in higher concentrations, materials that typically wouldn't burn easily can ignite more readily and burn more fiercely. This is crucial in settings like hospitals or industrial applications where oxygen is used extensively; understanding its role in supporting fire can help in implementing effective safety measures.

The other options point out aspects related to fire hazards, but they don’t fully encompass why oxygen specifically is deemed a fire hazard. For instance, oxygen itself is not flammable; rather, it is substances that burn in its presence that become increasingly hazardous. The production of toxic fumes upon heating applies to many materials, not just oxygen. Lastly, while oxygen can be pressurized and can lead to explosive situations if mishandled, the more fundamental concern in fire safety is its ability to support and intensify combustion.