Indoor Fire Pit Recalls & Dangers: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Family

There is nothing better than sitting around a fire pit, laughing with friends and family, and toasting marshmallows for the perfect s’more. Fire pits create fond memories—but only when used outdoors.

Recently, some companies have started selling “indoor fire pits” that use isopropyl alcohol as fuel. While these may seem convenient and fun, they’ve caused serious injuries, including right here in Pennsylvania. In fact, alcohol fueled fire pit accidents have been linked to serious injuries and even deaths.

Why Indoor Fire Pits Are Dangerous

Unlike traditional fireplaces that burn wood, alcohol-based fire pits do not burn with a visible flame. That means you may not even realize that the fire pit is still lit and active.

The biggest danger comes from something called flame jetting. This happens when liquid fuel, like isopropyl alcohol, is added to a flame that isn’t completely out. Instead of going out, the fire can explode into a fireball that shoots several feet across the room. This can set furniture on fire, or even worse, cause severe burns, in the matter of seconds.

Recent Recalls and Safety Warnings

After several reports of injuries, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has already issued warnings and recalls for alcohol-fueled fire pits. In October 2024, Colsen indoor fire pits were officially recalled after several accidents caused by flame jetting.

Other brands, including Rosato, FLIKRFIRE, and store-branded fire pits sold online by major retailers, have also been flagged for posing similar risks. Reports have linked these fire pits to two deaths and many serious burn injuries nationwide.

Dangers of Alcohol-Fueled Indoor Fire Pits

Fire Hazards: Sparks can land on carpet or furniture and start a fire.

Property Damage: Smoke and heat buildup indoors can cause harm to your home.

Severe Burns: Flame jetting can cause serious injuries that may need surgery.

Invisible Flames: The fire may still be burning even if you can't see it. This can lead to accidental burns.

Splash Hazards: Alcohol may spill or splash causing flames to spread on the floor.

Legal Options After a Fire Pit Injury

If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol fueled fire pit accident, you may have some legal options. Companies that sell unsafe or recalled indoor fire pits can be held legally responsible for injuries and damages.

Victims of indoor fire pit accidents may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills and treatment needed
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering from burn injuries
• Property damage caused by the fire

Protect Yourself and Your Family

Making s’mores by a fire is a tradition worth keeping. However, it should stay outside, where there is space and ventilation to keep everyone safe. Bringing a fire pit inside is NEVER worth the risk.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from an indoor fire pit accident, contact Edgar Snyder & Associates today for a free consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve after an indoor fire pit injury.

FAQs

Are indoor fire pits safe?

No. If your indoor fire pit is alcohol fueled, then it is not safe. These pits burn highly flammable liquid fuel which causes flames to be nearly invisible. On top of that, flame jetting can turn a small fire into an explosive fireball in the matter of an instant.

Why are invisible flames dangerous?

With alcohol-fueled fire pits, flames do not always look like the bright orange flames you would see in a campfire. Occasionally, the fire burns a clearer or even blue color, making it nearly invisible in an indoor setting. A person could potentially reach over the fire pit, thinking it is out, only to be severely burned. Children are especially at risk as they might not realize it is still lit.

What injuries can alcohol fire pits accidents cause?

The most common injuries are burn injuries, and they can cause life-changing trauma. Victims have suffered:

• Second and third-degree burns
• Permanent scarring
• Painful surgeries and skin grafts
• Psychological trauma after the accident

Some accidents have also caused damage to properties when flames spread to furniture, curtains, and walls. Unfortunately, there have also been two deaths linked to alcohol-fueled indoor fire pits.

What if I already bought one of these products?

Stop using it immediately. Even if you believe you are being careful, you cannot assume that it is safe. Check if your specific brand has been recalled through the CPSC’s recall database. If it has, you may be able to receive a refund. If not, consider getting rid of your fire pit and switching to a safer option.

Can I Sue If I Was Burned by an Indoor Fire Pit?

Yes. If you or a loved one has been injured by an alcohol-based indoor fire pit, you may have a case for product liability. In other words, the company that made or sold the fire pit may be legally accountable for putting a dangerous product on the market. An attorney can review your case, explain your options, and help you get the justice you deserve for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.