Difference between pages "Salsa - Oahu" and "Fire Dancing - Safety Manual"

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==About==
 
==About==
  
{{DaughterPage|mother=[[Dance]]}}
+
{{DaughterPage|mother=[[Fire Dancing]]}}
  
{{CovidWarning|message=This info could change at any time due to covid (call the venue first). This info was last updated <b>Apr 28, 2021</b>}}
 
  
Oahu is an island of about 1 million, so there is a salsa scene, but it's quite modest. I guess people on Oahu are more drawn to [[Dance_-_Hawaii|Fire Dancing]] (which has an amazing scence!). Due to covid, most salsa places are closed, but there's a few places opening up if you want to learn, or want to dance (with masks). Also be warned that unlike other places.... Hawaii just doesn't stay open late, so if you show up at 11pm (as people do in other cities), the place may have closed 2 hours ago!
+
Fire spinning is inherently dangerous. Reading this article is no substitute for real training, and we highly recommend an in-person fire safety training such as the one by FlowArtsInstitute.com.
  
 +
==Fire Science==
  
 +
Fire is a chemical reaction which requires three components:
  
==Websites==
+
# Heat
 +
# Oxygen
 +
# Fuel
  
... couldn't find anything up to date.
+
In practical terms, the best way to put out fire props is usually smothering the fire to starve it of oxygen. Fire wicks can reach very high temperatures, which is transferred to the surrounding metal.You can quickly touch a wick or waver your hand over flame without getting burnt - hence one of the most known ways to stay safe is to always stay moving. Most burns happen when you touch the metal or stay still.
  
 +
===Fuel Science===
  
===Oahu Dance Timetable===
+
Most fire spinners use <b>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_gas white gas]</b> (also known as <b>"camp fuel"</b> or b>Naptha</b>), which forms a vapor and is a Class 1B Flammable Solvent (it can ignite at room temperature potentially). Popular brands are [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coleman_fuel Coleman], Ozark Trail & Crown, and most often bough in a gallon can for ~$18 at any hardware store. If you are using less common fuels (such as: paraffin, kerosene or alcohol fuels) please read up, they all have different flash points and other properties.
  
It's pretty sparse!
+
===Fuel Safety===
  
{{Prettyblockquote}}
+
===Fuel Containers and Fuel Depot===
* <b>Mondays:</b>  .......... [https://stayhappening.com/e/salsa-andamp-carnitas-taco-1st-andamp-3rd-mondays-E2ISTIIYWRA SurfJack] every 1st & 3rd Monday @ 6:00-9:00pm.
 
* <b>Tuesday:</b> ........... Gordon teaches small free lessons near Queens Beach (the bandstand in the park). * message me for his number, he is old school.
 
* <b>Wednesday:</b> ..... [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/latin-night-at-shorefyre-every-wednesday-with-son-caribe-tickets-126687637133 Shorefyre - International Marketplace] live salsa band @ 6:00-8:00pm.
 
* <b>Thursday:</b> ........ ''I don't know anywhere''
 
* <b>Friday:</b> .............. ''I don't know anywhere''
 
* <b>Saturday:</b> .......... ''I don't know anywhere''
 
* <b>Sunday:</b> ............ ''I don't know anywhere''
 
</blockquote>
 
  
If you find out about anything, please email me! {{Email}}
+
Store your fuel cans in cool places, preferably locked away with warning stickers. When you bring cans to fire spinning, keep them near the dipping station in a safety area well away (at least 20 feet) from the fire circle. Always close the lid.
  
 +
===Dipping Can and Secondary Container===
  
==Salsa Events/Venues in Oahu==
+
For the dipping container, fire spinners often use a (steel plated) one gallon <b>empty paint can</b> but an <b>ammo can</b> is also popular. Both are pretty decent for dipping wicks, although an advantage of the paint can is that you can quickly throw the lid on top to extinguish a flame in an emergency.
  
 +
Either way, the important parts:
  
{| {{prettytable}}
+
* Always <b>close the lid</b> after dipping - if the can is open a stray ember or flame could mean disaster.
|- {{prettytable_h}}
+
* Always use a <b>secondary container</b> - this should be a large metal tray that catches any spills.
!Name
 
!Location
 
!Evaluation / Times
 
  
|- {{prettytable_r}}
+
===Dipping Station, Safety Area===
! colspan="3"|
 
===WAKIKI===
 
''Moved there Dec 2020''
 
  
 +
In the dark, people can easily trip over the dipping can so in practice you should keep the area illuminated (with a safe LED light) and clear of anyone who isn't dipping. Make sure your illumination is something like a LED lamp which doesn't generate much heat or electricity, and keep it near enough to your fuel can that people can see what they are doing as they dip and close the lid. Another amazing idea is to create a safety perimeter with a string of LED rope lights with a 20 feet perimeter. You want all fire performers to be told to keep outside of this area unless they are actually dipping.
  
{{Dance_venue
+
A venue layout diagram is a good idea.
|url=https://stayhappening.com/e/salsa-andamp-carnitas-taco-1st-andamp-3rd-mondays-E2ISTIIYWRA
 
|name=SurfJack
 
|rating=****-
 
|address= [https://g.page/thesurfjack?share 412 Lewers St]
 
|suburb=Honolulu, (Wakiki)
 
|description=Lovely restaurant by a pool, with a tucked away area to dance. They set up little X's for 6 couples to dance inside (with masks), and you can overflow into the pool area (for maybe 6 more couples), but it's harder to hear the DJ outside. Still a really fun vibe. Entry is I think <b>$15</b> or <b>"free"</b> if you buy food and drinks. They have decent happy hours, and they also police the social distancing pretty nicely - if you don't dance on your designated spot the bouncer will say something. Fair warning, they seem to play more bachata than salsa.
 
|open=Every '''1st and 3rd Monday''' of the month (call 808-923-8882 to check) 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Arrive before 6 to get a good table near the action.
 
  
[[Image:Salsa_surfjack_900w.png|600px|center|thumb|Surfjacks...([https://photos.app.goo.gl/wfyrAxDMuAY2CWvA9 see video])]]
 
  
}}
 
  
 +
==The Performing Process (Recommendations)==
  
{{Dance_venue
 
|url=https://goo.gl/maps/uziREKXn4ox
 
|name=Gordon's free classes @ the Bandstand!
 
|rating=****-
 
|address= [https://goo.gl/maps/uziREKXn4ox Kapiʻolani Park Bandstand, 2686-2882 Kalakaua Ave]
 
|suburb=Honolulu, (Wakiki)
 
|description=Gordon Walker is pretty old school (he's not on the social media), so text me for his number, but if you like '''free lessons''' and building community, he's the one that told me about the salsa events, and his lessons are pretty darn good! Think easy-intermediate... if you're a total beginner he's very accommodating.
 
|open=Tuesdays 5:30-sunset
 
  
[[Image:Salsa_gordon_900w.jpg|600px|center|thumb|Gordon's class]]
+
===Dipping Recommendations===
}}
 
  
 +
* Fully immerse wicks for 1-2 seconds in fuel.
 +
* Keep handles and chains of prop away from fuel.
 +
* Dip excess fuel back into the container for a few seconds.
 +
* Close the lid.
 +
* Leave the dipping area to spin-off excess fuel into a bag or spin-off area.
  
{{Dance_venue
 
|url=https://www.sakuraartscollective.com/?post_type=tribe_events
 
|name=Sakura Arts Collective - special events
 
|rating=*****
 
|address=[https://g.page/sakura-arts-collective?share 184 N King St, Honolulu]
 
|suburb=Honolulu, (Downtown)
 
|description=The magical Mayu runs this place, and they have all kinds of yoga events! During covid it all died down, and is masked dancing only, but occaisionally you might see a batchata or [https://www.sakuraartscollective.com/?post_type=tribe_events latin event on their calendar]. Don't miss their Batchata events, they are amazing! Great people, great atmophere.
 
|open=Maybe once a month, [https://www.sakuraartscollective.com/?post_type=tribe_events check calendar] - but all kind of yoga events if most days.
 
  
[[Image:Sakura_arts_collective_batchata_900w.jpg|600px|center|thumb|"Batchata Essence" event... really fun. You must wear masks, which is good.]]
+
===Spinning Out===
}}
 
  
 +
After dipping you should always immediately leave the safety area and spin off excess fuel (yes it's a liquid) else it will spill off while it's on fire - potentially on you or another performer. Spinning off should be done away from the dipping station and fire circle, and some groups build special environmentally friendly <b>spin off structures</b> to spin off without getting the fuel on the ground. Others can use <b>zip lock</b> bags around each wick, with the advantage that you catch excess fuel to return to the dipping container.
  
|}
+
If you don't have a special structure or ziplocks, at least have a designated spin off area (away from all people and fire), and the act of spinning off is to simply spin your prop quickly for a few seconds such the that centrifuge force will make the fuel will fly away from you - and not towards you onto your clothes! Try to minimize the fuel you get on the ground
  
 +
There is a great video with detail on spinning off and fuel safety here: https://youtu.be/TqmEgbPA5Qg
  
==Cancelled / Expired Salsa Events/Venues in Oahu==
 
  
 +
===Lighting Up===
  
{| {{prettytable}}
+
Just before lighting up you should see who's performing and look around the space for hazards (both tripping and overhead hazards).... but most importantly, notice if there is any <b>wind</b>.
|- {{prettytable_h}}
 
!Name
 
!Location
 
!Evaluation / Times
 
  
|- {{prettytable_r}}
+
You should always light up on the far side of the fire circle - well away from the fuel. Some people use a cigarette lighter to light up, but that's for experienced users only. A really great option is any device that can stay lit, like a lamp or tiki torch, and keep that well away from the fuel.
! colspan="3"|
 
===WAKIKI===
 
''Moved there Dec 2020''
 
  
  
{{Dance_venue
+
===Extinguishing the Fire and Exiting===
|url=https://www.eventbrite.com/e/latin-night-at-shorefyre-every-wednesday-with-son-caribe-tickets-126687637133
 
|name=Shorefyre - International Marketplace
 
|rating=****-
 
|address= [https://g.page/shorefyre?share International Marketplace, 2330 Kalakaua Ave Suite 396 (level 3)]
 
|suburb=Honolulu, (Wakiki)
 
|description=Just above the Telsa store in touristy Wakiki (take the elevator to level 3) is this wonderful outdoor restaurant that has an amazing live salsa band every Wednesday. You'll need to book online ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/latin-night-at-shorefyre-every-wednesday-with-son-caribe-tickets-126687637133 eventbrite link]) to reserve a table outside ('''$15 each and a minimum of 5 people'''), else you simply won't get in (it's a popular restaurant for tourists). The outside area isn't huge, you're kind of dancing between tables with your masks on. The music is great! Be sure to arrive 6 sharp, and you might even consider eating a little first or arrive early to enjoy the happy hour food ($30 gets you 4 nice tapas plates) and drinks without cutting into dance time. At 8pm you'll porbably wish you could dance later... and the fun thing is that there's an unofficial '''afterparty''' on the beach near the Lagoon & Gilligan's beach shack... just a few fun people with a speaker system dancing outside on the grass. Good people and good vibes. <rb><b>WARNING: Sadly the dancing was prohibited on April 28, 2021.... so it's still good music, but for most of us not worth $15 if we can't dance. Maybe in a few months it will come back on again.</b>
 
|open=Every Wednesday from 6-8 (so only 2 hours).
 
  
[[Image:Salsa_shorefyre_900w.png|600px|center|thumb|Shorefyre...([https://photos.app.goo.gl/C8e1bnkk3udS3Zct5 see video])]]
+
Always make sure your flame is out and you exit away from the fuel. A good safety map will have you exit away from the safety zone and return your prop somewhere safe (since it's still hot, and you should wait ten minutes before you think about dipping again).
  
}}
+
In casual situation, many performers wait until the flame is low and then <b>blow out or swing out the flame</b>, and then exit. People often applaud when you swing, out, so you might even take a bow before exiting. In performance situations however, your flame is probably still too strong to blow or swing out, so instead you'll need a <b>fire retardant blanket</b> (sometimes called "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duvetyne duvetyne]" because that's the most common type of fabric) and a designated <b>safety spotter</b> to help you put out the flame.
  
|}
+
Each different prop has different method to extinguish, so you should watch some videos on how to extinguish each prop you use. The safety spotter is the one responsible for safety extinguishing your flame, and although each prop has a different method, some comminatlities are:
 +
 
 +
* Always keep your head away from the flame.
 +
* Make sure the wick is placed on the center of the blanket.
 +
* If not placed adequately, the fire safety should always tell you to back off, and place your prop again.
 +
* Each motion/fold of the blanket (which takes practice) should be fluid and skim over the wick so as not to billow oxygen onto the flame.
 +
* Be very away of the properties of fire, and the direction that fire will billow out with each fold.
 +
* Ideally the safety should wear good gloves, but after the face, protecting everyones fingers is priority.
 +
* Once the wick is totally wrapped (totally smothered), you should choked the neck and count to five to make sure the fire is completely out.
 +
 
 +
Here's a picture of how to extinguish a staff, but remember each prop is different, so please watch <b>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-81VbfLmP4&feature=youtu.be this entire video]</b> and more if your prop is not covered.
 +
 
 +
[[Image:Firedancing_putting_out_fire_staff_w900.png|900px|center|thumb|Putting out a prop.]]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==The Performance Area==
 +
 
 +
Just like the fire safety area, the performance area (usually either a "stage" or designated "fire circle") should be roped off in some way so that non-spinners don't just wander inside. A circle of solar powered lights, or even a long, but highly visible rope will help form this perimeter for people. Make sure the fire circle is large enough that the audience are 20 feet from the fire. Depending on the size of the circle you might want to enforce a maximum number of performers... keeping in mind that a dynamic prop like a rope dart requires much more space. You should never throw static props near the edge of the fire.
 +
 
 +
Good spatial awareness of your fellow spinners is key here. Also, if you set the ground on fire at all, please stamp it out immediately. The safety spotter should yell it out.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==Fabric and Clothing==
 +
 
 +
{{Prettyblockquote}}<b>TLDR:</b> Fairly snug fitting denim or pure cotton clothes work best. Avoid synthetics (very bad). Tie up and wet long hair. Covering your arms and legs can protect against burns so is a good idea for non-professional spinners.</blockquote>
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Figure content, fabric weight and weave and fit and finish is all important to consider with clothing. Fact is everything burns at some temperature, but some materials are more fire resistant.
 +
 
 +
===Fiber Content===
 +
 
 +
* <b>Natural fibers</b> (cotton, wool, etc) are good - they don't catch fire easily and don't melt.
 +
* <b>Synthetics</b> (polyester, etc) are bad - they burn more easily, they melt (onto your skin) and they hold static electricity.
 +
* <b>Aramid fibers</b> (kevlar, etc) are great, but still and hard to come by.
 +
 
 +
Many clothes are a mix (80/20 cotton & polyester) in a common t-shirt, so have properties of both.
 +
 
 +
===Fabric Weight and Weave===
 +
 
 +
Heavier, tighter weaves are more protective as they keep oxygen out. Denim or pure cotton are best. If you hold it up to the light and see through it easily, then it might not be a good choice.
 +
 
 +
===Fit and Finish===
 +
 
 +
* Snug fitting prevents oxygen buildup and make spinning easier.
 +
* Sleeves & pants not too long or floppy.
 +
* Avoid dangling or fuzzy clothes - can catch fire easily, or tangle your prop.
 +
 
 +
Fire-retardant sprays can help a little, but if you get fuel on you, it will still burn.
 +
 
 +
===Wet Your Hair===
 +
 
 +
One thing that always helps against fire is water. Nobody wants to drench their clothes in water before spinning (obviously), but if you have long hair you are encouraged to do a hair tie, wear a hat or <b>wet your hair before you spin</b> each time. A good fire crew will keep a big spray bottle of water for anyone to quickly dampen their hair.
 +
 
 +
===Footwear and Accessories===
 +
 
 +
Some people dance barefoot, but closed shoes can be good to stamp out  fire. Certain accessories like jewelry might be a hazard as they might catch your prop.
 +
 
 +
==Designated Safety Spotter==
 +
 
 +
The best fire troops have a designated safety spotter at all times. Their job is to call out anything dangerous, and be close to the emergency equipment (blankets) to run in if needed.
 +
 
 +
The safety spotter may also help you extinguisher in a controlled way. A good fire spotter will also have fire-retardant gloves at the ready.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==Fire Suppression==
 +
 
 +
Fire suppression is all about an emergency, this is different from extinguishing a prop in a controlled way.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
===Safety Blanket===
 +
 
 +
Every fire troop should have one or two blanket on hand, positioned beside the fire circle and near any safety spotter.
 +
If someone catches on fire, you should yell out where they are on fire, then give them a second or two to pat it out themselves, but if that fails (or if the fire looks out of control), you should whip out that clothes rated fire safety blanket and run up... cover the area from the top and then pat down. Get them to stop drop and roll and cover them on the group (smoother them) if necessary.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
===Extinguishers===
 +
 
 +
Extinguishers should be considered: (a) a last resort, (b) single use only, and (c) only used by certified professions. If someone is on fire, use a blanket because the extinguisher can do more harm than good. Every fire troop is recommended to own a (non-expired) extinguisher, but know that it is is a last result.
 +
 
 +
Two types of extinguishers:
 +
 
 +
* <b>A-B-C extinguishers</b>: Dry chemical. Not always good for a liquid fire, as it will spread it out. Don't use on people.
 +
* <b>B-C extinguishers</b>: Usually baking soda. Use on people as an absolute last resort.
 +
 
 +
Extinguisher use is "PASS":
 +
* <b>P - Pull</b>.  (pull the pin out COMPLETELY)
 +
* <b>A - Aim</b>.  (aim at the BASE of the fire)
 +
* <b>S - Squeeze</b>.  (squeeze the trigger)
 +
* <b>S - Sweep</b>.  (sweep back and forward)
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==Performance Checklists==
 +
 
 +
===Pre-Ignition Checklist===
 +
 
 +
Before lighting up ask yourself:
 +
 
 +
# <u><b>Personal inspection:</b></u>
 +
## Are you <b>sober and alert</b>?  (alcohol & drugs have no place here)
 +
## Are you <b>physically okay</b>?  (stretched / injuries / hungry fire)
 +
# <u><b>Clothing inspection:</b></u>
 +
## Are you <b>dressed appropriately</b>?  (no catching risks)
 +
# <u><b>Hair inspection</b></u>
 +
## Should you wet or tie your hair?
 +
# <u><b>Tool inspection:</b></u>
 +
## Is your <b>prop ready</b>?  (screwed in tight / wick trimmed)
 +
# <u><b>Other performer inspection:</b></u>
 +
## Have you talked to the safety & know who else is performing.
 +
# <u><b>Environment inspection:</b></u>
 +
## Do you know the <b>venue layout / safety map</b>?  (where is the nearest safety equipment)
 +
## What are the <b>environment risks</b>?  (trip hazard, overhead trees)
 +
## What is the <b>wind</b> situation?  (light up from upwind)
 +
 
 +
 
 +
===Just-After Ignition Checklist===
 +
 
 +
Most accidents happen just after you light, when the fuel burns hottest. Be aware of:
 +
 
 +
# <b>Excess fuel</b> - you very likely have too much fuel, so try spin slowly at first and use less next time.
 +
# <b>Excess adrenalin</b> - fuel can make you excited & spin beyond your skill level, take deep breathes and go your own speed.
 +
# <b>Your space and audience</b> - just after you've ignited, look around the audience and fire circle for one last check of who's around and obstacles you might not have noticed.
  
  
==Links==
 
  
{{Prettyblockquote}}
 
For information about Salsa dancing check out my dancing pages:
 
  
* <b>[http://www.andrewnoske.com/personal/dancing.php AndrewNoske.com - All About Dance]</b> - links to several docs I wrote, including:
+
==See Also==
* <b>[http://www.andrewnoske.com/personal/dancing/Dancing_Tips_for_Beginners.pdf Dancing_Tips_For_Beginners.pdf]</b> - wrote back during my PhD... be warned, it's LONG!
 
</blockquote>
 
  
 +
* [[Fire Dancing]]
  
{{Acknowledgement|people=<b>Gordon Walker</b> for starting salsa lessons, and letting myself and at least three of my friends about the events that are going on! Without Gordon I would have no idea about any of these events, because most of my Google searches show very outdated (pre-covid) salsa information. Thanks Gordon!}}
+
==Links==
  
 +
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_performance Fire performance - Wikipiedia]
 +
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKQfQjnni74&list=PLXBKzrT0URwD-sHIuD2Yzx0hWrN01qJoz&index=8 FlowArtsInstitute - Fire Safety Project Playlist] - A set of 11 great videos by FlowArtsInstitute.com and
  
[[Category:Personal]]
+
{{Acknowledgement|people=<b>Clemson Salus</b> and <b>Dhevhan Keith</b> for introducing me to fire safety.  :)}}
[[Category:Images]]
 

Revision as of 15:36, 2 May 2021

About

NOTE: This page is a daughter page of: Fire Dancing


Fire spinning is inherently dangerous. Reading this article is no substitute for real training, and we highly recommend an in-person fire safety training such as the one by FlowArtsInstitute.com.

Fire Science

Fire is a chemical reaction which requires three components:

  1. Heat
  2. Oxygen
  3. Fuel

In practical terms, the best way to put out fire props is usually smothering the fire to starve it of oxygen. Fire wicks can reach very high temperatures, which is transferred to the surrounding metal.You can quickly touch a wick or waver your hand over flame without getting burnt - hence one of the most known ways to stay safe is to always stay moving. Most burns happen when you touch the metal or stay still.

Fuel Science

Most fire spinners use white gas (also known as "camp fuel" or b>Naptha), which forms a vapor and is a Class 1B Flammable Solvent (it can ignite at room temperature potentially). Popular brands are Coleman, Ozark Trail & Crown, and most often bough in a gallon can for ~$18 at any hardware store. If you are using less common fuels (such as: paraffin, kerosene or alcohol fuels) please read up, they all have different flash points and other properties.

Fuel Safety

Fuel Containers and Fuel Depot

Store your fuel cans in cool places, preferably locked away with warning stickers. When you bring cans to fire spinning, keep them near the dipping station in a safety area well away (at least 20 feet) from the fire circle. Always close the lid.

Dipping Can and Secondary Container

For the dipping container, fire spinners often use a (steel plated) one gallon empty paint can but an ammo can is also popular. Both are pretty decent for dipping wicks, although an advantage of the paint can is that you can quickly throw the lid on top to extinguish a flame in an emergency.

Either way, the important parts:

  • Always close the lid after dipping - if the can is open a stray ember or flame could mean disaster.
  • Always use a secondary container - this should be a large metal tray that catches any spills.

Dipping Station, Safety Area

In the dark, people can easily trip over the dipping can so in practice you should keep the area illuminated (with a safe LED light) and clear of anyone who isn't dipping. Make sure your illumination is something like a LED lamp which doesn't generate much heat or electricity, and keep it near enough to your fuel can that people can see what they are doing as they dip and close the lid. Another amazing idea is to create a safety perimeter with a string of LED rope lights with a 20 feet perimeter. You want all fire performers to be told to keep outside of this area unless they are actually dipping.

A venue layout diagram is a good idea.


The Performing Process (Recommendations)

Dipping Recommendations

  • Fully immerse wicks for 1-2 seconds in fuel.
  • Keep handles and chains of prop away from fuel.
  • Dip excess fuel back into the container for a few seconds.
  • Close the lid.
  • Leave the dipping area to spin-off excess fuel into a bag or spin-off area.


Spinning Out

After dipping you should always immediately leave the safety area and spin off excess fuel (yes it's a liquid) else it will spill off while it's on fire - potentially on you or another performer. Spinning off should be done away from the dipping station and fire circle, and some groups build special environmentally friendly spin off structures to spin off without getting the fuel on the ground. Others can use zip lock bags around each wick, with the advantage that you catch excess fuel to return to the dipping container.

If you don't have a special structure or ziplocks, at least have a designated spin off area (away from all people and fire), and the act of spinning off is to simply spin your prop quickly for a few seconds such the that centrifuge force will make the fuel will fly away from you - and not towards you onto your clothes! Try to minimize the fuel you get on the ground

There is a great video with detail on spinning off and fuel safety here: https://youtu.be/TqmEgbPA5Qg


Lighting Up

Just before lighting up you should see who's performing and look around the space for hazards (both tripping and overhead hazards).... but most importantly, notice if there is any wind.

You should always light up on the far side of the fire circle - well away from the fuel. Some people use a cigarette lighter to light up, but that's for experienced users only. A really great option is any device that can stay lit, like a lamp or tiki torch, and keep that well away from the fuel.


Extinguishing the Fire and Exiting

Always make sure your flame is out and you exit away from the fuel. A good safety map will have you exit away from the safety zone and return your prop somewhere safe (since it's still hot, and you should wait ten minutes before you think about dipping again).

In casual situation, many performers wait until the flame is low and then blow out or swing out the flame, and then exit. People often applaud when you swing, out, so you might even take a bow before exiting. In performance situations however, your flame is probably still too strong to blow or swing out, so instead you'll need a fire retardant blanket (sometimes called "duvetyne" because that's the most common type of fabric) and a designated safety spotter to help you put out the flame.

Each different prop has different method to extinguish, so you should watch some videos on how to extinguish each prop you use. The safety spotter is the one responsible for safety extinguishing your flame, and although each prop has a different method, some comminatlities are:

  • Always keep your head away from the flame.
  • Make sure the wick is placed on the center of the blanket.
  • If not placed adequately, the fire safety should always tell you to back off, and place your prop again.
  • Each motion/fold of the blanket (which takes practice) should be fluid and skim over the wick so as not to billow oxygen onto the flame.
  • Be very away of the properties of fire, and the direction that fire will billow out with each fold.
  • Ideally the safety should wear good gloves, but after the face, protecting everyones fingers is priority.
  • Once the wick is totally wrapped (totally smothered), you should choked the neck and count to five to make sure the fire is completely out.

Here's a picture of how to extinguish a staff, but remember each prop is different, so please watch this entire video and more if your prop is not covered.

Putting out a prop.



The Performance Area

Just like the fire safety area, the performance area (usually either a "stage" or designated "fire circle") should be roped off in some way so that non-spinners don't just wander inside. A circle of solar powered lights, or even a long, but highly visible rope will help form this perimeter for people. Make sure the fire circle is large enough that the audience are 20 feet from the fire. Depending on the size of the circle you might want to enforce a maximum number of performers... keeping in mind that a dynamic prop like a rope dart requires much more space. You should never throw static props near the edge of the fire.

Good spatial awareness of your fellow spinners is key here. Also, if you set the ground on fire at all, please stamp it out immediately. The safety spotter should yell it out.


Fabric and Clothing

TLDR: Fairly snug fitting denim or pure cotton clothes work best. Avoid synthetics (very bad). Tie up and wet long hair. Covering your arms and legs can protect against burns so is a good idea for non-professional spinners.


Figure content, fabric weight and weave and fit and finish is all important to consider with clothing. Fact is everything burns at some temperature, but some materials are more fire resistant.

Fiber Content

  • Natural fibers (cotton, wool, etc) are good - they don't catch fire easily and don't melt.
  • Synthetics (polyester, etc) are bad - they burn more easily, they melt (onto your skin) and they hold static electricity.
  • Aramid fibers (kevlar, etc) are great, but still and hard to come by.

Many clothes are a mix (80/20 cotton & polyester) in a common t-shirt, so have properties of both.

Fabric Weight and Weave

Heavier, tighter weaves are more protective as they keep oxygen out. Denim or pure cotton are best. If you hold it up to the light and see through it easily, then it might not be a good choice.

Fit and Finish

  • Snug fitting prevents oxygen buildup and make spinning easier.
  • Sleeves & pants not too long or floppy.
  • Avoid dangling or fuzzy clothes - can catch fire easily, or tangle your prop.

Fire-retardant sprays can help a little, but if you get fuel on you, it will still burn.

Wet Your Hair

One thing that always helps against fire is water. Nobody wants to drench their clothes in water before spinning (obviously), but if you have long hair you are encouraged to do a hair tie, wear a hat or wet your hair before you spin each time. A good fire crew will keep a big spray bottle of water for anyone to quickly dampen their hair.

Footwear and Accessories

Some people dance barefoot, but closed shoes can be good to stamp out fire. Certain accessories like jewelry might be a hazard as they might catch your prop.

Designated Safety Spotter

The best fire troops have a designated safety spotter at all times. Their job is to call out anything dangerous, and be close to the emergency equipment (blankets) to run in if needed.

The safety spotter may also help you extinguisher in a controlled way. A good fire spotter will also have fire-retardant gloves at the ready.


Fire Suppression

Fire suppression is all about an emergency, this is different from extinguishing a prop in a controlled way.


Safety Blanket

Every fire troop should have one or two blanket on hand, positioned beside the fire circle and near any safety spotter. If someone catches on fire, you should yell out where they are on fire, then give them a second or two to pat it out themselves, but if that fails (or if the fire looks out of control), you should whip out that clothes rated fire safety blanket and run up... cover the area from the top and then pat down. Get them to stop drop and roll and cover them on the group (smoother them) if necessary.


Extinguishers

Extinguishers should be considered: (a) a last resort, (b) single use only, and (c) only used by certified professions. If someone is on fire, use a blanket because the extinguisher can do more harm than good. Every fire troop is recommended to own a (non-expired) extinguisher, but know that it is is a last result.

Two types of extinguishers:

  • A-B-C extinguishers: Dry chemical. Not always good for a liquid fire, as it will spread it out. Don't use on people.
  • B-C extinguishers: Usually baking soda. Use on people as an absolute last resort.

Extinguisher use is "PASS":

  • P - Pull. (pull the pin out COMPLETELY)
  • A - Aim. (aim at the BASE of the fire)
  • S - Squeeze. (squeeze the trigger)
  • S - Sweep. (sweep back and forward)


Performance Checklists

Pre-Ignition Checklist

Before lighting up ask yourself:

  1. Personal inspection:
    1. Are you sober and alert? (alcohol & drugs have no place here)
    2. Are you physically okay? (stretched / injuries / hungry fire)
  2. Clothing inspection:
    1. Are you dressed appropriately? (no catching risks)
  3. Hair inspection
    1. Should you wet or tie your hair?
  4. Tool inspection:
    1. Is your prop ready? (screwed in tight / wick trimmed)
  5. Other performer inspection:
    1. Have you talked to the safety & know who else is performing.
  6. Environment inspection:
    1. Do you know the venue layout / safety map? (where is the nearest safety equipment)
    2. What are the environment risks? (trip hazard, overhead trees)
    3. What is the wind situation? (light up from upwind)


Just-After Ignition Checklist

Most accidents happen just after you light, when the fuel burns hottest. Be aware of:

  1. Excess fuel - you very likely have too much fuel, so try spin slowly at first and use less next time.
  2. Excess adrenalin - fuel can make you excited & spin beyond your skill level, take deep breathes and go your own speed.
  3. Your space and audience - just after you've ignited, look around the audience and fire circle for one last check of who's around and obstacles you might not have noticed.



See Also

Links


Acknowledgements: Clemson Salus and Dhevhan Keith for introducing me to fire safety. :)