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| | On this page I'm keeping a small collection of articles I find on fire safety. This doesn't apply to the fire performance art skills of fire breathing and fire eating, but instead focuses mostly on spinning fire using the common <b>static props</b> like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_staff fire staffs], [http://bit.ly/2NH9Dqq dragon staffs], [http://bit.ly/3uGmt8U fire swords], [http://bit.ly/2OanXYl palm torch], [http://bit.ly/3uJkP6C fire fingers], etc, plus common <b>dynamic props</b> like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poi_(performance_art) poi] and [http://bit.ly/3uAsT9D rope dart]. | | On this page I'm keeping a small collection of articles I find on fire safety. This doesn't apply to the fire performance art skills of fire breathing and fire eating, but instead focuses mostly on spinning fire using the common <b>static props</b> like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_staff fire staffs], [http://bit.ly/2NH9Dqq dragon staffs], [http://bit.ly/3uGmt8U fire swords], [http://bit.ly/2OanXYl palm torch], [http://bit.ly/3uJkP6C fire fingers], etc, plus common <b>dynamic props</b> like [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poi_(performance_art) poi] and [http://bit.ly/3uAsT9D rope dart]. |
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| − | ==Videos==
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| − | * '''[https://youtu.be/k-81VbfLmP4 Fire Dancing Safety: How to Put Out Props]''' by [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLdxKhzTFBH85cjiSfMVeFQ DrexFactor Poi]... really great information covering dynamic and static pros. He also has some great tutorial videos on spinning poi.
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| − | ==Putting Out a Static Prop==
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| − | [[Image:Firedancing_putting_out_fire_staff_w900.png|900px|center|thumb|Putting out a prop.]]
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| − | Note that the process for something like fire fingers is very different, and should be done while standing, with your fingers held up and in a very specific way. Always make sure that
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| | ==Safety Manual== | | ==Safety Manual== |
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| | + | Before your first fire spin, I recommend reading this entire manual: |
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| − | 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. | + | * <b>[[Fire Dancing - Safety Manual]]</b> |
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| − | ===Fire Science===
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| − | Fire is a chemical reaction which requires three components:
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| − | # Heat
| + | ==Videos== |
| − | # Oxygen
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| − | # Fuel
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| − | 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.
| + | * '''[https://youtu.be/k-81VbfLmP4 Fire Dancing Safety: How to Put Out Props]''' by [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLdxKhzTFBH85cjiSfMVeFQ DrexFactor Poi]... really great information covering dynamic and static pros. He also has some great tutorial videos on spinning poi. |
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| − | ====Fuel Science====
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| − | 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.
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| − | ===Fuel Safety===
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| − | ====Fuel Containers and Fuel Depot==== | + | ==Putting Out a Static Prop== |
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| − | 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.
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| − | ====Dipping Can and Secondary Container====
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| − | 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.
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| − | Either way, the important parts:
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| − | * Always <b>close the lid</b> after dipping - if the can is open a stray ember or flame could mean disaster.
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| − | * Always use a <b>secondary container</b> - this should be a large metal tray that catches any spills.
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| − | ====Dipping Station, Safety Area====
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| − | 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.
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| − | A venue layout diagram is a good idea.
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| − | ====Dipping Recommendations====
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| − | * Fully immerse wicks for 1-2 seconds in fuel.
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| − | * Keep handles and chains of prop away from fuel.
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| − | * Dip excess fuel back into the container for a few seconds.
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| − | * Close the lid.
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| − | * Leave the dipping area to spin-off excess fuel into a bag or spin-off area.
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| − | ====Spinning Out====
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| − | 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.
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| − | 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
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| − | There is a great video with detail on spinning off and fuel safety here: https://youtu.be/TqmEgbPA5Qg
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| − | ====Lighting Up====
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| − | 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 tiki torch, and keep that on the opposite side of the fire circle.
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| − | ===The Fire Circle===
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| − | Just like the fire safety area, the fire circle or stage 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.
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| − | 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.
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| − | ===Fabric and Clothing===
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| − | {{Prettyblockquote}}TLDR: Fairly snug fitting denim or pure cotton clothes work best. Covering your arms and legs can protect against burns.</blockquote>
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| − | 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.
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| − | ====Fiber Content====
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| − | * <b>Natural fibers</b> (cotton, wool, etc) are good - they don't catch fire easily and don't melt.
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| − | * <b>Synthetics</b> (polyester, etc) are bad - they burn more easily, they melt (onto your skin) and they hold static electricity.
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| − | * <b>Aramid fibers</b> (kevlar, etc) are great, but still and hard to come by.
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| − | Many clothes are a mix (80/20 cotton & polyester) in a common t-shirt, so have properties of both.
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| − | ====Fabric Weight and Weave====
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| − | 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.
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| − | ====Fit and Finish====
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| − | * Snug fitting prevents oxygen buildup and make spinning easier.
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| − | * Sleeves & pants not too long or floppy.
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| − | * Avoid dangling or fuzzy clothes - can catch fire easily, or tangle your prop.
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| − | Fire-retardant sprays can help a little, but if you get fuel on you, it will still burn.
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| − | ====Wet Your Hair====
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| − | One thing that always helps against fire is water. You probably don't want to drench your clothes, but if you have long hair consider wearing a hat or wet your clothes before you spin each time.
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| − | ===Footwear and Accessories===
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| − | 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.
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| − | ===Designated Safety Spotter===
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| − | 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.
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| − | 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.
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| − | ===Fire Suppression===
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| − | Fire suppression is all about an emergency, this is different from extinguishing a prop in a controlled way.
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| − | ====Safety Blanket====
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| − | Every fire troop should have one or two blanket on hand, positioned beside the fire circle and near any safety spotter.
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| − | 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.
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| − | ====Extinguishers====
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| − | 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.
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| − | Two types of extinguishers:
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| − | * <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.
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| − | * <b>B-C extinguishers</b>: Usually baking soda. Use on people as an absolute last resort.
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| − | Extinguisher use is "PASS":
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| − | * <b>P - Pull</b>. (pull the pin out COMPLETELY)
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| − | * <b>A - Aim</b>. (aim at the BASE of the fire)
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| − | * <b>S - Squeeze</b>. (squeeze the trigger)
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| − | * <b>S - Sweep</b>. (sweep back and forward)
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| − | ===Pre-Ignition Checklist===
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| − | Before lighting up ask yourself:
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| − | # <u><b>Personal inspection:</b></u>
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| − | ## Are you <b>sober and alert</b>? (alcohol & drugs have no place here)
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| − | ## Are you <b>physically okay</b>? (stretched / injuries / hungry fire)
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| − | # <u><b>Clothing inspection:</b></u>
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| − | ## Are you <b>dressed appropriately</b>? (no catching risks)
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| − | # <u><b>Hair inspection</b></u>
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| − | ## Should you wet or tie your hair?
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| − | # <u><b>Tool inspection:</b></u>
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| − | ## Is your <b>prop ready</b>? (screwed in tight / wick trimmed)
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| − | # <u><b>Other performer inspection:</b></u>
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| − | ## Have you talked to the safety & know who else is performing.
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| − | # <u><b>Other performer inspection:</b></u>
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| − | ## Do you know the <b>venue layout / safety map</b>? (where is the nearest safety equipment)
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| − | ## What are the <b>environment risks</b>? (trip hazard, Overhead trees)
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| | + | [[Image:Firedancing_putting_out_fire_staff_w900.png|900px|center|thumb|Putting out a prop.]] |
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| − | ===Just-After Ignition Checklist===
| + | Note that the process for something like fire fingers is very different, and should be done while standing, with your fingers held up and in a very specific way. Always make sure you understand the properties of fire, and which way the fire will billow with each fold - it will billow, you just have to make sure it billows away from your face! |
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| − | Most accidents happen just after you light, when the fuel burns hottest. Be aware of:
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| − | # <b>Excess fuel</b> - you very likely have too much fuel, so try spin slowly at first and use less next time.
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| − | # <b>Excess adrenalin</b> - fuel can make you excited & spin beyond your skill level, take deep breathes and go your own speed.
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| − | # <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.
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