The Risks of Serving Flaming Alcohol (It’s a Bad Idea)

Some bars and restaurants are eager to ignite an exciting atmosphere by mixing liquor with fire. Whether it’s setting shots ablaze or pouring flaming liquor cascades, each method has one thing in common: severe risk.

While there are liquor liability concerns and challenges just with serving alcohol alone, flaming drinks introduce a greater degree of dangers:

  • Burn injuries resulting from consuming a drink that is still on fire
  • Severe skin burns from holding hot glassware
  • Risk of flaming liquor splashing on a person
  • Cuts from fractured glassware
  • Patrons adding more alcohol to the flaming drink, causing the fire to spread
  • An unattended flaming drink cracking the glassware and spilling the fire onto combustible surfaces

However an accident occurs, a seriously injured customer or out-of-control fire can easily be the outcome. Tempting as it might be, this gimmick designed to bring in business may be the end of your business entirely.

You can find solutions to more bar and restaurant fire dangers in our “Fire Prevention” blog series. Sign up for a policy with Society and you also get access to our risk management experts, who will help tackle your safety and health concerns. Learn more by getting in touch with your local independent Society agent.

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As a mutual insurance company, we operate and exist for the benefit of our policyholders. For more than 100 years, Society has been helping businesses overcome the unexpected with comprehensive coverage packages and outstanding claims handling, underwriting and risk management.

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