The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Maryland State Fire Marshal advise consumers not to buy or use indoor tabletop fire pits or s’mores makers that burn alcohol or other liquid fuel. These products pose a serious injury risk when pouring in the alcohol or fuel to the container as there is “flame jetting” when refilling.
- To avoid the dangers associated with indoor fire pits, it is recommended to:
- Always extinguish the flame before refueling
- Use safe fuels, ones specifically recommended for indoor fire pits
- Keep pets and children at a safe distance
- Ensure the room is well-ventilated
- Install a smoke and carbon monoxide detector in your home and check them often
These were popular holiday gift items, but there are other great ways to have fun indoors during winter. Consider treats like hot cocoa, or use your microwave or oven for s'mores.
If a burn does occur, make sure flames are out (stop, drop, and roll) and remove any burned clothing. Burns can be treated with cool water (not cold water or ice) and seen by a doctor at a burn center as soon as possible. In Maryland, children are seen at the Children's Burn Center at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, while adults are treated at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Burn Center for Adults
Maryland TraumaNet is a multidisciplinary organizational advocacy group, consisting of representatives from each Maryland Trauma Center. The group works together throughout the state to advocate for better trauma care outcomes and injury prevention. Lean more about their work here.
