Tabletop Fire Pit Burn Injury Lawsuits

Tabletop fire pit that was recalled for causing burn injuries A popular tabletop fire pit product has been recalled after dangerous explosions caused severe burn injuries. If you were burned by a tabletop fire pit, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Can I Sue if I Was Injured by a Tabletop Fire Pit?

Yes. If you were burned by a defective tabletop fire pit, you may be able to sue to recover compensation for your injuries. Under Florida’s product liability law, manufacturers can be held responsible for injuries caused by dangerous or defective products. Contact a product liability lawyer to discuss your case and whether you should file a lawsuit.

At Swope, Rodante P.A., our attorneys have over 45 years of experience winning cases against negligent companies. Call (813) 273-0017 for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Why Tabletop Fire Pits Are So Dangerous

Recalled Coleson tabletop fire pit

Many recalled tabletop fire pits use rubbing alcohol or similar liquid fuel in an open reservoir to produce a flame. Alcohol burns with a nearly invisible flame, making it hard to tell if the fire is fully out. If someone tries to refuel too soon, any remaining flame can ignite the new fuel and cause a sudden explosion of fire called “flame jetting.”

In a flame jetting event, flames flash back into the fuel container and blast out of the fire pit, spewing burning alcohol onto anyone nearby. This can happen “quickly and unexpectedly,” causing burns in less than one second that can be serious or even deadly.

Even during normal use, these fire pits pose risks. If the alcohol fuel spills, splashes or leaks from the concrete container, it can instantly ignite into a flash fire, creating larger, hotter flames that escape the unit. Because the fuel and flames are hard to see, users might not realize the danger until a fire has already spread.

Tragically, federal safety officials report at least two deaths and over 60 burn injuries since 2019 tied to these types of alcohol-burning fire pits. In one instance, an elderly couple was fatally engulfed when their tabletop fireplace exploded; in another, an 18-year-old suffered severe burns during a family event. These cases underscore how a decorative “smokeless” fire pit can turn catastrophic in an instant.

Colsen Tabletop Fire Pit Recall Details

Colsen-branded tabletop fire pits have been recalled after dozens of dangerous flame “jetting” incidents caused serious burns to users. These small concrete fire pits, fueled by isopropyl alcohol, can unexpectedly erupt in a burst of flame, engulfing anyone nearby in seconds. Victims have suffered second and third-degree burns, permanent scarring, and even life-threatening injuries.

In response to mounting injury reports, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall for about 89,500 Colsen tabletop fire pits. The recall affects seven models of Colsen indoor/outdoor fire pits, all made of concrete and designed to burn liquid alcohol fuel. The CPSC warns that these products pose a flame jetting and fire hazard.

By the time of the recall, at least 31 incidents had been reported to CPSC involving Colsen fire pits, resulting in 19 known burn injuries. Victims were often caught off-guard by a sudden blast of flame. Two people suffered third-degree burns over 40% of their bodies, and at least six injuries were so severe they required surgery, skin grafts, or prolonged hospitalization in burn units. Permanent disfigurement and disability were reported in multiple cases.

The recalled Colsen fire pits range from 5 to 18 inches wide and were sold in gray or black with Colsen-branded extinguishing lids. They were marketed as “smokeless” tabletop fireplaces for indoor or patio use, meant for ambiance or s’mores.

Colsen Fire Pit Recall Notice from the CPSC

Sales took place from about January 2020 through July 2024, with prices typically $40 to $90 per unit. Colsen Fire Pits LLC, based in Miami, Florida, became the manufacturer after acquiring the product line from a prior company.

The CPSC urges anyone who owns a Colsen fire pit to immediately stop using it and dispose of it properly. Do not resell or donate these items. It is illegal to sell recalled products due to the safety risk.

Notably, no replacement or refund is being offered by the company. The recall announcement states that Colsen “does not have the financial resources to offer a remedy to consumers,” having ceased sales less than a year after taking over the product line.

This means victims cannot simply return the product for a refund, leaving legal action as one of the only avenues for compensation if you’ve been injured. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options if you have been hurt by a tabletop fire pit.

Severe Burn Injuries and Lasting Impact

The burns caused by these fire pit accidents are often extensive and very serious. Third-degree burns (full thickness burns) can destroy skin and nerve tissue, requiring emergency surgery and skin grafting. According to the CPSC, some Colsen fire pit victims had burns covering nearly half of their bodies. Injuries of this magnitude typically involve intensive care, multiple surgeries, and months or years of painful rehabilitation.

Even second-degree burns (partial thickness) can leave permanent scars and require lengthy treatment. At least six people injured by Colsen fire pits have undergone surgery or specialized burn treatments, and several face long-term disabilities or disfigurement as a result. The physical pain is often accompanied by emotional trauma, as burn survivors cope with scarring and the psychological aftermath of the accident.

Examples of Injuries Caused by Tabletop Fire Pits

Unfortunately, the known cases likely represent just a fraction of the total incidents. Safety officials suspect that many burn accidents go unreported, especially if victims initially blame themselves or are unaware of the broader product hazard. Some incidents that have come to light include:

A family in New York described a fireball erupting from their tabletop fire pit as they tried to toast marshmallows, severely burning an 11-year-old child. The flame was nearly invisible until it suddenly whooshed out, igniting the child’s shirt.
In New Hampshire, an elderly couple added fuel to what they thought was an extinguished flame, causing a flame jet that engulfed them. Both suffered fatal burn injuries. Investigators later found the flame in the unit hadn’t been fully out – a grim illustration of how deceptive these devices can be.
In another report, a group of friends gathered on a patio were caught by surprise when a Colsen fire pit’s flame jumped out of the bowl. Three people were burned, including one with extensive burns to the face and hands. Witnesses say the device “exploded like a mini firebomb” when someone bumped the table it was on.

(These examples are composite illustrations based on reported patterns; individual results vary.) What they share is a sudden, unexpected eruption of fire that ordinary consumers could not anticipate or control. Even after the recall, many units may remain in homes or be resold secondhand, meaning the risk of injury is ongoing. If you or someone you know was hurt by a tabletop fire pit, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options.

Legal Options for People Injured by Tabletop Fire Pits

Those injured by defective fire pits have the right to pursue claims under product liability law. Manufacturers and sellers can be held legally responsible for injuries caused by an unreasonably dangerous product or a failure to warn of known hazards.

In the case of Colsen and similar tabletop fire pits, evidence suggests design defects (like the open alcohol reservoir design, which violates safety standards) and insufficient warnings about the refueling dangers. When companies sell a product that can maim or kill when used as intended, they can be liable for the consequences. This includes not only the manufacturer (Colsen) but potentially major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or others that sold the product.

Damages Available in Recalled Fire Pit Lawsuits

A successful burn injury lawsuit can recover compensatory damages to help make you whole. This typically includes medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, scar revision procedures), lost income if you missed work or can no longer work, and pain and suffering for the physical and emotional anguish endured.

Severe burns often involve long-term care, and settlements or verdicts may account for future medical needs and the impact on your quality of life. In cases of egregious misconduct or gross negligence, punitive damages might also be pursued to punish the wrongdoers.

Do I Still Have a Case After the Fire Pit was Recalled?

Yes, a recall does not shield a company from liability. In fact, recall evidence can support your case by showing the product was acknowledged to be hazardous. Here, the CPSC recall and warnings serve as powerful documentation that the fire pits were defective and unsafe.

Moreover, because the manufacturer lacks funds, injured consumers may need to seek compensation from other liable parties. Retailers, distributors, or any company in the supply chain that profited from selling the fire pit could share responsibility.

For example, Amazon’s own emails to customers (in late 2024 and 2025) warning of fire pit dangers were part of a campaign initiated under CPSC pressure – a move that some say was as much about damage control amid lawsuits as it was about safety. If you’ve been hurt, do not hesitate to explore your legal options, since there may be multiple avenues for recovery.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Burn Injury Lawyer?

Swope, Rodante P.A. handles burn injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and no fee at all unless we win compensation for you. Proving a product was defectively designed or lacked warnings requires technical evidence and navigating legal standards. Companies (and their insurers) vigorously defend these claims – you’ll be up against corporate attorneys and experts.Your focus should be on healing, while we handle the legal battle.

Our firm can investigate the accident, preserve evidence, consult top experts (such as fire safety engineers and medical specialists), and build the strongest case for you. We also negotiate with insurers and, if needed, will take your case to trial to fight for full justice. Hiring a lawyer not only evens the playing field – it often yields a far greater recovery than trying to handle a claim on your own.

Contact Swope, Rodante P.A. for a Free Consultation

Choosing the right attorney is critical in a burn injury or product liability case. These claims can be technically complex – involving engineering experts, safety standards, and often fighting large companies or insurance teams. Swope, Rodante P.A. has a proven track record of handling the most complex and catastrophic injury cases, including severe burn injuries. Our law firm represents clients across Florida. Call (813) 273-0017 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Tabletop Fire Pit Hazards & Lawsuits

Q: Why were Colsen tabletop fire pits recalled?
A: Colsen tabletop fire pits were recalled because they were found to be unreasonably dangerous, prone to flame jetting and flash fires. The CPSC determined that invisible alcohol flames and design flaws could “cause burns in less than one second that can be serious and deadly”. Essentially, normal use or refueling could lead to sudden eruptions of fire, posing a high risk of severe injury.

Q: How many people have been hurt by tabletop fire pits?
A: At least 19 people have suffered burn injuries linked to Colsen fire pits, according to reports filed with the CPSC. Nationwide, there have been dozens of injuries and at least two deaths since 2019 related to alcohol-fueled tabletop fire features. The true number of incidents may be higher, since not all cases are reported.

Q: What types of injuries have occurred?
A: Victims have experienced second- and third-degree burns, often to the hands, arms, torso, or face. Some burns covered large portions of the body (over 40% in the worst cases). Injuries have required emergency treatment, skin graft surgeries, lengthy hospital stays in burn units, and left people with permanent scars or disfigurement. A few accidents have been fatal. These are among the most severe injuries we see in product liability cases.

Q: Were all Colsen fire pits recalled? Which models?
A: Yes, the recall covers all Colsen-branded tabletop fire pits (indoor/outdoor models). There were seven models in total – various shapes (round, square, rectangular, hexagonal, skull-shaped) ranging from 5 inches to 18 inches in size. If your fire pit is labeled “Colsen” or came with Colsen branding (like on the flame extinguisher lid), it’s included in the recall. They are concrete devices meant to burn alcohol fuel. Even similar products by other brands should be considered dangerous if they use open liquid fuel.

Q: What should I do if I have a recalled tabletop fire pit?
A: If you bought a tabletop fire pit, stop using it immediately. The CPSC says you should dispose of the fire pit so it cannot be used. Do not resell it or give it away, since it’s a recalled, hazardous product. In some cases, Amazon or retailers might offer a refund. If it caused you injury, preserve it as evidence and speak with a lawyer before discarding.

Q: Can I still sue after a dangerous or defective product is recalled?
A: Yes, a recall does not prevent you from suing if you were injured by a dangerous of defective product. In fact, the recall supports your claim that the product was unsafe. Often manufacturers don’t offer compensation for recalled products which means a lawsuit may be the only way to recover your losses. Even if you disposed of the unit or it’s been a while since the accident, you should consult with a product liability attorney to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Q: Who could be held liable for my burn injuries?
A: Potentially multiple parties. The manufacturer (Colsen) is an obvious defendant for producing a dangerous product. However, Colsen has indicated it has limited assets, so we also look at retailers and distributors. Amazon, Walmart, and other sellers that sold these fire pits can sometimes be held liable under product liability law – especially if the manufacturer is insolvent or if the retailers failed in their duty to ensure product safety. In ongoing litigation, for example, Amazon is facing lawsuits for selling these fire pits without proper warnings or safety mechanisms. Every case is unique, but an experienced attorney will identify all responsible parties (including any company that marketed or imported the product).

Q: What damages can I recover in a tabletop fire pit lawsuit?
A: You can claim economic damages for all your financial costs – this includes past and future medical bills (ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, rehabilitation, etc.), and lost wages or loss of earning capacity if your injury affects your ability to work. You can also claim non-economic damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. Burns are incredibly painful injuries that often have long-term physical and psychological effects, so these damages can be significant. In egregious cases, punitive damages might be awarded to penalize particularly reckless conduct. A lawyer can give you a realistic sense of your case’s value once they review the facts.

Q: Can I sue for a fire pit injury if the product was sold online?
A: Yes. It doesn’t matter that you bought the fire pit online or outside Florida; if you were injured here (or if the seller or manufacturer has a business presence in the U.S.), we can likely pursue the case in Florida courts. Product injury cases often have a nationwide scope. We can advise you on the best venue and handle all the filings. Being local to Tampa Bay, we also keep abreast of any community impacts – for instance, local news outlets like FOX 13 and WFLA have covered this recall, warning Floridians about the burn risks. We are ready to assist burn victims from anywhere in Florida, leveraging both our local presence and national-level litigation experience.

Q: What is flame jetting?
A: Flame jetting is a dangerous phenomenon where a flame hidden inside of a fire pit ignites new fuel being added, causing a sudden jet of fire to shoot out. It often happens if you pour alcohol into the burner while a flame (nearly invisible) is still present, sending a torch-like stream of flames and burning liquid outward onto people nearby.

If you or a loved one have been injured by a tabletop fire pit or similar product, contact Swope, Rodante P.A. for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our team is here to answer your questions, educate you on your rights, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call (813) 273-0017 to discuss your case and your legal options.