If you or a loved one were injured or killed by a 
Common Hazards Linked to Exploding Fire Pits and Heaters
Not all fire pits or outdoor heaters are inherently unsafe. However, some units on the market fail to meet voluntary safety standards, increasing the risk of explosion. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, tabletop models using alcohol-based fuel have caused numerous injuries due to flame jetting and uncontrolled ignition.
These dangers are often the result of:
- Lack of flame arrestors or protective shields
- Inadequate instructions or labeling
- Unstable fuel containers that allow vapor buildup
- Defective ignition switches or valves
- Materials that overheat or shatter under pressure
When a product defect contributes to an explosion or fire, it may fall under the scope of a product liability claim. Victims suffering from second- or third-degree burns may need long-term care, including skin grafts or plastic surgery, depending on the severity and location of the injuries, according to the Mayo Clinic. A burn injury attorney can evaluate whether these injuries are tied to product failure.
Legal Pathways Under Product Liability Law
Under U.S. product liability law, companies that manufacture, sell, or market defective consumer products may be held accountable when those products cause harm. This includes both design and manufacturing defects, as well as failures to warn consumers about known risks.
If an outdoor heater or tabletop fire pit exploded due to poor design or insufficient safety warnings, victims may be eligible to bring claims under:
- Design defect liability
- Manufacturing defect liability
- Failure to warn (marketing defect)
Each case must be assessed individually. An attorney can investigate whether similar incidents have occurred, whether the product was recalled, and if safety standards were ignored. When appropriate, a claim may also reference evidence from consumer product recalls to strengthen the case.
Victims should act quickly to preserve evidence, including the fire pit itself, medical records, and photographs of the incident scene. Legal consultation may be appropriate to determine the next steps.
Types of Injuries Caused by Fire Pit Explosions
The injuries sustained from fire pit or heater explosions are often severe and life-altering. Victims may experience significant physical trauma, especially when alcohol-based fuels ignite unexpectedly or explode due to design flaws.
Typical injuries include:
- Severe burns requiring hospitalization
- Inhalation injuries from toxic smoke
- Eye and facial trauma
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
Such injuries often require extensive rehabilitation. For many, returning to work or daily routines is delayed for months, sometimes years. Victims can work with personal injury attorneys to understand if their recovery can be supported through a personal injury claim.
Recent Recalls and Legal Guidance
The Ammons Law Firm has extensive experience representing individuals who have been injured by hazardous consumer products, including tabletop fireplaces and fire pits. These cases highlight the serious harm that can result from defective or poorly designed products and the critical role legal action plays in holding manufacturers accountable and protecting public safety.
1. Colsen indoor/outdoor tabletop fire pits
- The recall applies to seven Colsen-branded fire pit models after receiving 31 incident reports, including 19 cases of burn injuries, two of which resulted in third-degree burns.
2. FLIKRFIRE Tabletop Fireplaces
- The warning follows a fatal incident in June 2024 involving a couple who suffered fatal burns and numerous burn injuries.
3. Big Lots Citronella Torches
- Big Lots is recalling a line of tabletop citronella torches following multiple reports of fire-related incidents, including serious injuries.
4. Five Below Tabletop Fire Pits
- Federal safety officials said alcohol fuel used in the fire pits may splash or leak during lighting or use, causing a flash fire and larger flames that can extend beyond the unit.
5. STIHL Inc. BF-KM Mini-Cultivator Attachments
- Some units were incorrectly assembled, posing a risk of lacerations.
The Ammons Law Firm Can Help
If you or a loved one were harmed by an exploding tabletop fire pit or outdoor heater, The Ammons Law Firm can review your case and explain your legal rights. Our team understands the complexities of consumer product litigation and provides guidance rooted in fact, not false promises.
Recovery may be possible through a product liability claim, depending on the circumstances. We investigate potential manufacturing defects, overlooked recalls, and violations of consumer safety standards to help you seek justice.
