NFPA Urges Safe Practices When Using Gel Fuel

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is urging the public to employ extreme caution when working with gel fuel, a product typically used with fire pots, personal fireplaces and some patio torches. Recent news reports have highlighted several incidents where people have been injured while using gel fuel, a number of them occurring during the refueling process. NFPA warns that a flame may still be burning even when it is not visible and that pouring fuel on any open flame is extremely unsafe. A dry chemical extinguisher or baking soda is recommended to extinguish the fire. It is also important to allow a gel fuel device to cool completely before refueling to avoid fires and burn injuries.