On July 6, 2025, 18-year-old Viana Poggi suffered severe second and third-degree burns in a shocking accident at her Laguna Niguel home. While refilling a tabletop fire pit with isopropyl alcohol to make s’mores with her family, an unnoticed small flame triggered an explosive flare-up, engulfing her face and hands. This harrowing incident, reported by KTLA, underscores the hidden dangers of tabletop fire pits; popular products that can lead to catastrophic injuries if not handled with extreme caution.
A Devastating Accident with Lasting Impact
Viana’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The sudden flare-up, described as feeling like “being struck by lightning,” left her with severe burns requiring immediate hospitalization and two major skin surgeries. Her cousin’s quick thinking, pulling her into a pool to douse the flames, likely saved her from even graver harm. Viana emerged with a resilient spirit, documenting her recovery on TikTok with lighthearted videos that have garnered millions of views. Her positivity shines through, but her experience serves as a stark warning about the risks these devices pose.
The Hidden Dangers of Tabletop Fire Pits
Tabletop fire pits are marketed as safe, convenient additions to gatherings, but Viana’s accident reveals their potential for danger. These devices often use flammable fuels like isopropyl alcohol, which can ignite unexpectedly if not fully extinguished before refilling. As Viana noted, “You can’t hear it coming. You can’t see it coming. It’s instant.”
Key risks associated with tabletop fire pits include:
- Flame Jetting and Explosions: Refilling a fire pit with fuel while a small flame or ember remains can cause sudden, explosive bursts of fire, projecting intense flames outward that can be difficult to see, posing immediate burn risks.
- Flammable Fuels: Isopropyl alcohol and other accelerants can ignite rapidly, creating intense, uncontrollable flames.
- Lack of Safety Features: Many tabletop fire pits lack adequate warnings or mechanisms to prevent improper refilling or operation.
- Widespread Use: Their popularity for casual gatherings increases the likelihood of misuse, especially without clear safety instructions.
These hazards can result in severe burns, permanent scarring, and significant medical costs, not to mention the emotional trauma for victims and their families.
How Biren Law Group Can Help Burn Victims
At Biren Law Group, we understand the profound impact that burn injuries from defective or dangerous products can have on victims’ lives. Our team has a proven track record of representing victims of tabletop fire pit and fireplace injuries, and deeply understands the unique dangers and serious consequences of these cases. With extensive experience in product liability cases, we have successfully held manufacturers and retailers accountable, and we leverage this specialized knowledge to build strong cases, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they need.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping individuals seek justice and fair compensation for their suffering. Here’s how we can assist:
- Investigating Product Liability: We work with experts to determine if the fire pit’s design, manufacturing, or lack of adequate warnings contributed to the accident. Manufacturers and retailers may be held accountable for failing to ensure consumer safety.
- Pursuing Compensation: We fight to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
- Navigating Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our team negotiates aggressively to ensure victims receive the full compensation they deserve.
- Providing Compassionate Support: We guide clients through the legal process with empathy, allowing them to focus on recovery while we handle the complexities of their case.
Prioritize Safety and Seek Justice
Viana Poggi’s story is a powerful reminder to exercise caution with tabletop fire pits. Always ensure the device is fully extinguished before refilling, follow manufacturer instructions, and consider safer alternatives for gatherings. For those who have suffered burn injuries due to a defective or hazardous product, Biren Law Group is here to help.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a tabletop fire pit or similar product, contact Biren Law Group today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team will evaluate your case, explore your legal options, and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward. Let us help you turn a painful chapter into a path toward recovery and justice.
Biren Law Group is committed to advocating for burn victims and holding negligent manufacturers accountable. Reach out today to learn how we can support you.