Indoor Fire Pit Incidents Prompt Warning From MD State Fire Marshal

MARYLAND — Officials are warning Marylanders about the safety of indoor fire pits after a woman and a 9-year-old child were injured Monday in a blaze sparked by an indoor ignitable liquid flame kit commonly used to make s'mores.

The state fire marshal shared that three incidents involving fire pits have been reported within the past few months. According to officials, the woman and child both suffered burns from the fire at a Laurel home. The 9-year-old was taken to Johns Hopkins Pediatric Facility with life-threatening injuries. The woman was treated and released at the scene.

The state fire marshal's office noted that indoor fire pits have become increasingly popular for families who want to bring the warmth and aesthetics of an outdoor campfire indoors during the winter months. But they are a risk.

"The main concern involves flame jetting, a dangerous phenomenon when refilling alcohol- or liquid-fuel-burning fire pits while any flame remains. Flame jetting happens when the fuel source, often alcohol-based, is added to the fire pit and vaporizes, causing a burst of flame to jet out of the pit," said Maryland Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "If any open flame is nearby during refueling, the vapor can ignite explosively, leading to serious burns, property damage or even fatalities. This is especially dangerous in indoor settings where confined spaces compound the risks."

Roasting marshmallows over these fire pits poses risks, too. To minimize the dangers associated with indoor fire pits and enjoy s'mores safely, the Office of the State Fire Marshal recommends residents take the following precautions:

1. Always extinguish the flame before refueling. Let the fire pit cool for several minutes to avoid the risk of flame jetting.
2. Use only use fuels specifically recommended for indoor fire pits. Avoid alcohol-based fuels unless specified for indoor use and opt for safer alternatives like gel fuels.
3. Keep children and pets at a safe distance. An adult should always monitor fire pits. Keep children and pets away from the flame and be cautious when roasting marshmallows.
4. Always ensure the room is well-ventilated when using an indoor fire pit to prevent the buildup of harmful gases like carbon monoxide. Never leave a fire pit unattended.
5. Install a smoke and carbon monoxide detector. A reliable detector system is essential for early detection of hazardous gas buildup.

"The recent incidents in Maryland, including the serious injury of a child, underscore the importance of following safety guidelines to prevent tragic accidents. By taking proper precautions, families can safely enjoy their fire pits and ensure that their gatherings remain fun and accident-free," Mowbray said.