NORWICH – Chenango County’s top fire official is joining the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control in warning the public of the potential hazards of using fuel gel products and the devices in which they are burned.
“This is a very dangerous product,” said Chenango County Fire Coordinator Matthew Beckwith.
Fuel gel is an ignitable, alcohol-based liquid thinkened with other ingredients to syrupy, gel-like consistency which burns readily without a wick. It often contains additives, such as scented oils or insect repellant, like citronella.
“There have been recent incidents of severe burn injuries to residents in the state as a result of the improper use of fuel gel products and devices. These incidents involved the use of ‘fuel gel’ burning ‘fire pots.’” reported Deputy State Fire Administrator John F. Mueller, in a fire safety warning issued last week by the state agency, which is a division of New York’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
Mueller described the ceramic pots as decorative items designed for use in place of candles or torches. The fuel gel is poured into a metal cup, which is inserved into the pot, then ignited.
According to Beckwith, the volative gel-like fuel has other uses as well.
“Many stores sell this across the State and it is often used in igniting pellet stoves and fireplaces. Consumers apply this to their pellets and ignite it,” he said.
The problem, he explained, is not only the flamable nature of the gel, but its consistency, which allows it to stick to surfaces, including skin and fabric.
“With its chemical makeup, if this product is applied incorrectly, or gets onto clothing and/or on to skin, it will ignite with the exposure to a flame,” Beckwith warned. “If a person attempted to simply ‘Pat the fire out,’ it will spread to further objects or clothing.”
He urged Chenango County residents to to “use extreme caution” when using fuel gel and fuel gel burning devices.
“If citizens do consider using this product, like with any other fire starting material, it must be used by an adult and kept out of the reach of children,” Beckwith said.
