2 Children Airlifted to the Hospital After Suffering Severe Burns While Roasting Marshmallows on Tabletop Fireplace

**Severe Burns in Oceanside Incident Linked to Recalled Tabletop Fireplace**

In a distressing incident in Oceanside, California, on Saturday, 27 June, two children suffered serious burns while roasting marshmallows using a recalled tabletop fireplace. An adult also sustained minor injuries during the event, which took place around 6:30 p.m. local time, drawing response from local firefighters and emergency services.

According to reports from the Oceanside Fire Department (OFD) and local media, a gathering of children and adults was enjoying an evening outdoors on a beachfront property when the tabletop fireplace suddenly malfunctioned. “Several children were gathered in an outdoor patio area with adults present while using a small tabletop fireplace that was being used to roast marshmallows,” stated the OFD. The device unexpectedly flashed, sending flames towards the children and igniting their clothing before nearby adults were able to douse the flames with water.

The flames originated from a Flikr Fire product, a brand known for its tabletop fireplaces powered by rubbing alcohol. The device had been subject to a recall in 2024 due to safety concerns. After the incident, two children were airlifted to the burn centre at UC San Diego, where they remain under treatment for what have been described as severe injuries. Their specific conditions, however, have not been disclosed, and their identities have yet to be made public.

A further casualty from the incident was reported, with one of the fathers of the injured children also suffering minor burns. He was similarly transported to the burn centre, as confirmed by the OFD.

The Flikr Fire product was recalled approximately four months before this incident. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the recall was issued due to severe fire hazards, which included risks of flame jetting and uncontrollable fires caused by spilled or pooled alcohol. These hazardous incidents led to two fatalities associated with the device, underpinning the urgent need for consumer awareness around such products.

In June 2024, an elderly couple tragically died after attempting to refill a Flikr Fire device they believed to be extinguished. The CPSC noted that there had been multiple accounts of serious burn injuries connected to this product, with at least three cases involving third- and fourth-degree burns.

The Oceanside Fire Department has cautioned the public about the inherent dangers associated with using alcohol-fuelled tabletop fireplaces, particularly regarding the unpredictable nature of alcohol vapours. “Incidents involving tabletop fire devices fueled with rubbing alcohol and other flammable liquids have been reported in other parts of the country, resulting in serious and life-altering burn injuries, particularly to children,” they stated. Their warning serves as a reminder of the potential risks that can arise even during what appears to be a safe and controlled environment.

At this time, both the Flikr Fire company and the Oceanside Fire Department have been approached for further comment on the incident and the safety concerns surrounding their products. Local authorities have urged families to remain vigilant and informed about the safety of household items, especially those that involve open flames or combustible materials.

As investigations continue, it remains crucial for families to adhere to safety guidelines when using such devices. This incident highlights the ongoing risks posed by recalled products and underscores the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of children and adults alike in domestic settings.