Fire Spinning Safety: The Essentials
Fire spinning is spectacular and, done properly, very safe. Every rule below exists because someone learned it the hard way.
Before you light up
- Learn every move with a non-fire version of the same prop until it is fully reliable.
- Wear natural fibres (cotton, wool, denim). Synthetics melt onto skin. Tie hair back.
- Get the venue's permission and check local fire rules.
The safety spotter
Never spin fire without a sober, trained safety spotter holding a damp cotton towel or fire blanket. A fire extinguisher should be within reach.
Fuel
Keep fuel in a sealed, labelled container well away from the performance area. Dip, then spin off excess fuel into a container away from people before lighting. Light at least a few metres from the fuel dump.
After the burn
Let wicks burn out or extinguish them with the damp towel. Let props cool before packing. Rewick when the Kevlar gets thin or frayed.
