Picture a cozy evening gathering around what seems like the perfect tabletop firepit, only to have it suddenly explode into uncontrollable flames. Recent reports reveal that liquid-burning portable firepits have caused two deaths and over 60 serious injuries since 2019. These seemingly innocent decorative fires, often marketed as safe indoor alternatives to traditional fireplaces, hide deadly risks that most buyers never see coming.
Liquid-burning firepits create uncontrollable pool fires
These trendy tabletop firepits require users to pour isopropyl alcohol or other liquid fuels directly into an open container, then light the pooled liquid. The problem starts immediately when that liquid ignites. Unlike controlled gas flames or contained wood fires, liquid fuel creates what fire safety experts call a “pool fire” – an unpredictable burn that can suddenly flare up without warning.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission explains that these pool fires can instantly produce larger, hotter flames that spread beyond the firepit itself. The liquid fuel burns at temperatures exceeding 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to cause third-degree burns in less than one second. What starts as a small, controlled flame can transform into a dangerous inferno that engulfs anyone nearby.
Flame jetting causes explosive accidents during refilling
Many accidents happen when people try to add more fuel to keep their firepit burning. Even when the visible flame appears small or nearly extinguished, invisible flames can still be present. These hidden flames are nearly impossible to see in daylight or bright indoor lighting, creating a false sense of safety.
When someone pours additional alcohol or liquid fuel into what they think is a safe firepit, the invisible flame ignites the fuel as it pours. This creates “flame jetting” – an explosive reaction that shoots burning liquid and flames directly at the person refilling the device. The safety commission warns that this explosion can propel flames and burning liquid onto users and anyone standing nearby, causing severe burns and injuries.
Popular holiday gifts hide serious safety violations
These dangerous firepits have become trendy gifts, especially during holiday shopping seasons. One burn victim noticed that when searching for “Yankee swap gifts under $30,” tabletop firepits consistently appeared as the top recommendation. The affordable price point and attractive marketing make them seem like perfect presents for anyone who enjoys cozy atmospheres.
However, these products violate established voluntary safety requirements for portable fire devices. The safety violations occur because the design requires users to pour flammable liquid directly into the same container where it burns. Legitimate fire products use separate fuel storage and burning chambers, or they use safer fuel delivery systems that don’t create pool fires.
Elderly couple dies from tabletop firepit explosion
The most tragic example occurred in Dover, New Hampshire, when 93-year-old Herm and Thelma Stolzenburg were killed by their tabletop firepit. The couple, married for 71 years, were sitting with family around what seemed like a safe, small fire when it suddenly exploded. Their daughter described the incident as flames shooting out “like a blow torch” that completely engulfed both parents.
Both elderly victims suffered third-degree burns over their bodies and died within a week of the accident – Herm and Thelma passed away just three days apart. This devastating incident demonstrates how quickly these devices can turn from pleasant ambiance into deadly weapons. The tragedy shows that even experienced adults using the product as intended can fall victim to its inherent design flaws.
Massachusetts woman hospitalized with severe burns
Katelyn Little from Hanover, Massachusetts, received a tabletop firepit as a gift and decided to set it up in her backyard during summer. Almost immediately after lighting it, the device erupted into uncontrolled flames that set her body on fire. She had to jump into her swimming pool to extinguish the flames, but the damage was already done.
Little spent four days in the hospital’s burn unit, unable to move due to second and third-degree burns covering her body. She required daily dressing changes and couldn’t get out of bed during her entire hospitalization. Her experience with the tabletop firepit transformed what should have been a relaxing evening into a painful recovery that lasted weeks. She now speaks publicly about the dangers to warn other potential buyers.
Multiple brands recalled after injury reports
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued specific warnings and recalls for several brands of liquid-burning firepits. FLIKRFIRE Tabletop Fireplaces received an official warning, while Colsen-branded firepits were completely recalled after causing injuries to 19 people. Some victims required surgery, while others suffered permanent disfigurement from their burns.
These recalls represent only a fraction of the dangerous products on the market. Many similar devices continue to be sold under different brand names or through various retailers. The recall notices often come after multiple serious injuries have already occurred, meaning countless other dangerous units remain in homes across the country. The recall process can take months or years, leaving consumers exposed to ongoing risks.
Traditional fireplaces pose different but serious risks
While liquid-burning firepits grab headlines for their explosive dangers, traditional wood-burning fireplaces create their own set of health and safety concerns. Poor maintenance leads to creosote buildup in chimneys, which becomes highly flammable and can cause devastating house fires. Many homeowners skip professional inspections, not realizing that hidden damage or blockages can turn their cozy fireplace into a fire hazard.
Carbon monoxide poisoning represents another serious threat from traditional fireplaces. This odorless, colorless gas can accumulate indoors when fireplaces don’t vent properly or when homeowners burn inappropriate materials. Unlike the immediate burns from liquid firepits, carbon monoxide poisoning can happen gradually, causing headaches, dizziness, and nausea before becoming life-threatening.
Wood smoke contains dangerous toxins and particles
Even properly functioning wood fireplaces release harmful substances into the air. Wood smoke contains benzene, formaldehyde, and other toxic chemicals that can damage respiratory systems over time. The fine particles from burning wood can penetrate deep into lungs, potentially causing or worsening asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing problems.
Long-term exposure to wood smoke has been linked to increased risks of lung cancer and other serious health conditions. The toxic chemicals released during wood combustion can affect everyone in the home, not just those sitting directly by the fireplace. People with existing respiratory conditions face particularly high risks when exposed to regular fireplace smoke.
Gas fireplaces can leak deadly carbon monoxide
Gas fireplaces seem safer than wood-burning alternatives, but they can produce carbon monoxide when they malfunction or receive poor maintenance. Blocked vents, damaged components, or improper installation can cause this deadly gas to accumulate in living spaces. Unlike visible smoke, carbon monoxide gives no warning signs until people start experiencing symptoms.
Regular professional inspections become critical for gas fireplace safety, yet many homeowners skip this essential maintenance. The carbon monoxide from faulty gas fireplaces can cause headaches, fatigue, confusion, and eventually death if exposure continues. Installing carbon monoxide detectors near gas fireplaces provides crucial early warning, but proper maintenance prevents the problem from occurring.
The recent deaths and injuries from liquid-burning firepits highlight how dangerous seemingly innocent fire products can become. Whether choosing portable firepits or traditional fireplaces, safety must come first. Professional inspections, proper maintenance, and understanding the real risks can help families enjoy warmth without putting their lives in danger.
