A Miami-based manufacturer is currently mired in multiple legal battles following reports of serious injuries associated with their tabletop fire pits. Customers, including one woman who suffered catastrophic burns, are alleging that the product poses significant safety hazards.

Burn Injuries and Legal Action

Kayla Hominski, a victim of one of these incidents, described her experience as *“life-altering.”* Hominski suffered severe burns affecting over 40% of her body during a gathering with friends. What was meant to be a cozy evening took a drastic turn when a fireball erupted from the Colsen Fire Pit as her husband attempted to reignite the flames.

“As soon as that liquid was in the fire pit, it just was kind of like a fireball, kind of an explosion,” she recounted.

The Danger of Flame Jetting

Experts explain that the phenomenon responsible for such violent flare-ups is known as flame jetting, which occurs when flammable liquids are improperly used around an open flame. This can send flames shooting up to 15 feet, creating critical risks for anyone nearby.

Stuart Ratzan, an attorney representing Hominski in a federal lawsuit against Colsen Fire Pits LLC, highlighted the lack of public awareness around flame jetting. He stated, “It’s an absolutely horrific situation, because it can burn somebody to death in a matter of seconds.”

Extent of the Injuries and Ongoing Struggles

Following the incident, Hominski underwent extensive medical treatment, including skin graft surgeries and rehabilitation that forced her to relearn fundamental activities. “I had to learn how to re-walk again,” she explained, emphasizing the long-term impact on her physical capabilities and daily life.

Despite her painful recovery, she expressed that there are still limitations in her life, saying, “My children want to go to, like, a haunted house, and there’s a line that’s an hour long. I can’t stand in that line with them.”

Responses and Recalls

Hominski is not alone in her experience; a total of 19 claimants have reported injuries linked to the Colsen Fire Pit. The manufacturer’s website has taken down its product listings and currently features a recall notice advising customers to cease using the fire pits and dispose of them safely.

While no representatives of Colsen Fire Pits LLC were available for comment, this recent spate of lawsuits raises serious concerns about consumer safety and product regulations in the outdoor fire fixture market.

Conclusion

As the legal proceedings unfold, these incidents highlight an urgent need for manufacturers to prioritize safety standards and inform consumers adequately about the potential dangers of their products. Hominski hopes her lawsuit will not only aid her recovery but also make a significant impact on product safety and accountability in the industry.