#USA #Washington #Consumer Product Safety Commission #Fire Pits #Safety Warning

Overview

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently issued a grave warning to the public regarding the use of fire pits designed to burn pooled alcohol or other liquid fuels. These products, often marketed as tabletop fire pits, fire pots, or portable indoor fireplaces, are linked to severe safety hazards, including serious burn injuries and even fatalities. Consumers are urged to cease usage immediately and dispose of any such products they may own. Retailers should also halt sales to prevent further incidents.

Safety Concerns

Since 2019, the CPSC has documented at least two fatalities and over sixty injuries associated with these hazardous fire pits. This alarming statistic raises concerns about consumer safety and compliance with existing regulations. The recent alert particularly highlights the dangers associated with specific brands, including the FLIKRFIRE Tabletop Fireplaces, which were previously flagged, and the Colsen-branded tabletop fire pits that have since been recalled.

The design of these fire pits contravenes the voluntary safety standard ASTM F3363-19, which aims to minimize risks related to pool fires and flame jetting — phenomena that can lead to uncontrollable flames. ASTM F3363-19 mandates that consumer products must prevent flames from spreading along the surface of flammable liquids and from erupting violently from liquid fuel containers.

Immediate Dangers

Liquid fuels such as isopropyl alcohol and ethanol burn at frighteningly high temperatures, exceeding 1,600°F, and can inflict third-degree burns in less than a second. When individuals ignite a pooled liquid in an open container, they create a hazardous pool fire scenario, which can escalate rapidly, producing larger and hotter flames that can easily escape the confines of the fire pit.

A lesser-known but equally dangerous hazard, known as flame jetting, can occur when attempting to refill these fire pits with liquid fuel while a small flame persists. This hidden flame can ignite the fuel as it is poured in, potentially resulting in an explosion that sprays flames and burning liquid onto anyone nearby. The CPSC has also released a safety video to illustrate how far these flames can travel and the catastrophic consequences they can have.

Consumer Recommendations

In light of these severe risks, the CPSC emphasizes that consumers should stop using these fire pits immediately. They are advising individuals to dispose of the products in a safe manner, ensuring they do not fall into the hands of unsuspecting buyers. The commission also urges retailers to cease the sale of these dangerous items, which have been widely available through various retail channels and online platforms.

Consumers who have encountered dangerous products or sustained injuries related to them are encouraged to report these incidents on the CPSC's SaferProducts.gov site. The CPSC plays a vital role in monitoring the safety of consumer goods and aims to protect the public from unreasonable risks associated with the use of numerous types of products.

Conclusion

For your safety, it is crucial to abide by the CPSC's recommendations regarding these fire pits. With such products linked to loss of life and serious injury, understanding and adhering to safety guidelines is imperative. Stay informed about the products you bring into your home, and always prioritize safety over convenience when it comes to recreational fire use.