By Gina Yarbrough
Oceanside, CA–Two children suffered severe burn injuries and an adult sustained minor burns after a tabletop fire device flared unexpectedly during a backyard gathering in Oceanside on Saturday, Oceanside fire officials said.
The incident occurred at 6:25 p.m. as several children and adults gathered on an outdoor patio to roast marshmallows over a small tabletop fireplace. During use, the device suddenly flashed, sending flames toward the children and igniting their clothing.
Parents and other adults immediately rushed to extinguish the flames and poured water on the injured children until emergency responders arrived.
Oceanside Fire Department personnel, lifeguards, and Oceanside police responded to the scene at 500 North of The Strand and provided emergency medical care. Due to the severity of the children’s injuries, they were airlifted to a regional burn center for specialized treatment.
One child’s father, who suffered minor burn injuries while helping the children, was transported by ground ambulance to the same burn center, where he was reunited with his family.
Preliminary findings indicate the tabletop fire device was fueled with rubbing alcohol.
Fire officials said similar incidents involving tabletop fire devices fueled by rubbing alcohol and other flammable liquids have been reported across the country, causing serious and life-altering burn injuries, particularly to children.
Officials warned that alcohol vapors can ignite unexpectedly, creating a dangerous flash fire even during what appears to be normal use. The cause of the incident remains under investigation.
