Bioethanol fires use liquid bioethanol as a fuel. Some are designed for indoor use, while others are for outdoor use.

Bioethanol fuel is highly flammable. If it is not used properly, it can cause serious burns and fires.

What to look for when buying a bioethanol fire

Look for a bioethanol fire that meets BS EN 16647-1:2025, the British Standard for alcohol-fuelled decorative fires.[JO1.1] This shows that the product has been designed and tested to meet recognised safety requirements.

Buy from a reputable retailer and check that the fire is suitable for where you plan to use it. Some models are designed for indoor use, while others are for outdoor use only.

Before using the fire for the first time, read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and keep them somewhere safe so you can refer to them in future.

Using a bioethanol fire safely 

The highest risk comes when refuelling. Fuel can ignite if it is added to a burner that is still hot, and even when a flame is not visible, the burner may still be hot enough to cause ignition.

Always make sure the fire is fully extinguished before refuelling and allow it to cool completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Never rush this step, even if the burner appears safe.

Use only the type of bioethanol fuel recommended for your appliance. Take care when refuelling to avoid spills and clean up any spills before lighting the fire again.

Never add fuel to a fire that is lit or still warm.

Once lit, the fire should never be left unattended. It should be fully extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed, and the appliance should never be moved while it is lit or still hot.

Place the fire on a flat, stable, non-combustible surface and keep it well away from anything that could catch fire, including curtains and furniture. Children and pets should always be kept at a safe distance from both the fire and the fuel.

Using bioethanol fires indoors

Only use a bioethanol fire indoors if it is designed for indoor use.

Use it in a well-ventilated room and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never use it in a small or poorly ventilated space.

Bioethanol fires produce carbon monoxide while burning, so it is important to reduce the risk of exposure. Install a carbon monoxide alarm and test it regularly. You should also ensure that you know the main signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, and feeling faint or confused.

More information is available on our Carbon Monoxide Safety page.

Using bioethanol fires outdoors

Outdoor bioethanol fires and fire pots should be placed on a flat, stable surface away from anything that could catch fire, including garden furniture, fences and parasols.

Always supervise the fire while it is lit and make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving it.

Storing bioethanol fuel

Bioethanol fuel is highly flammable.

Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed. Store it in a cool, dry place away from heat, sunlight and naked flames.

Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Before use, always check the container for signs of damage or leaking.

What to do in an emergency

• If a bio-ethanol fire gets out of control and cannot be extinguished using the in-built mechanism, move away immediately, close doors behind you if it is safe to do so, and call 999. Do not attempt to tackle the fire or move the appliance.
• Do not use water on a bio-ethanol fire, as this will spread the flames further.
• For burns, cool the affected area under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Seek medical attention if the burn is serious.
• If clothing catches fire, remember: Stop, Drop and Roll.
• If bio-ethanol fuel is swallowed, seek medical attention immediately. 

More advice is available from the NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/

https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/garden-safety

https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/carbon-monoxide