Fuels Guide

Safety
firesafety

Not all fuels are equal. The wrong fuel can injure you or your audience.

Recommended

  • Paraffin / lamp oil — the standard. Low volatility, cool burn, minimal soot. Used by 90% of fire spinners.
  • Ultra-pure paraffin (Isopar) — cleaner burn, less smell. Preferred for indoor or close-quarters performance.

Avoid

  • Petrol / gasoline — explosive vapours, burns hot, can ignite at a distance. Never use.
  • Alcohol / methylated spirits — invisible flame. Very dangerous.
  • Lighter fluid — too volatile, unpredictable.

Fuelling up

  1. Dip wicks in fuel for 30-60 seconds
  2. Spin off excess fuel away from people and flames
  3. Keep the fuel container sealed and 5m+ from any fire
  4. Never refuel a hot prop