Fire Performance Safety Checklist

The thrill of captivating an audience through fire performance is an art form that has mesmerized spectators for centuries. Whether it’s the mesmerizing dance of flames or the adrenaline-pumping feats of skill, fire performance holds a unique allure for both performers and onlookers alike. However, beneath the enchanting facade lies an inherent risk that demands utmost attention and respect. As a professional fire performer, incorporating a comprehensive Fire Performance Safety Checklist into one’s routine is not just a suggested practice, but an absolute imperative.

This checklist serves as a vital tool, safeguarding both the performer and the audience, ensuring that the spectacle remains an awe-inspiring spectacle rather than turning into a dangerous disaster. In this regard, understanding and adhering to the essential elements of a Fire Performance Safety Checklist is not merely an option, but a professional responsibility that every fire performer must prioritize.

In this article, we will explore the critical significance of using a Fire Performance Safety Checklist, delving into its benefits, potential hazards it can mitigate, and the overall enhancement it brings to the credibility and professionalism of the fire performer. Embracing this proactive approach is key to unlocking the true magic of fire performance, where the artist can confidently showcase their talent while embracing the assurance of safety and wellbeing for all involved.

What is a Fire Performance Safety Checklist?

A fire performance safety checklist is a list of safety measures and precautions that should be followed before, during, and after a fire performance. The checklist is designed to ensure the safety of the performers, crew, and audience members. 

Benefits of Using a fire performance safety checklist

• 👍 Ensuring the safety of performers: A fire performance safety checklist can help performers identify potential hazards and take steps to minimize the risk of injury or accidents. This can help ensure that performers are able to safely execute their routines and reduce the likelihood of accidents or injuries.
• 👍 Protecting the audience: A safety checklist can help ensure that the audience is kept at a safe distance from the performance area, reducing the risk of burns or other injuries.
• 👍 Reducing risk of property damage: Fire performances are dangerous & unpredictable. A safety checklist helps performers identify potential hazards and take steps to minimize risk of property damage.
• 👍 Meeting regulatory requirements: Many jurisdictions have regulations and permits that are required for fire performances, and using a safety checklist can help ensure compliance with these requirements.
• 👍 Encouraging best practices: A safety checklist promotes best practices in fire performance safety, including use of fire-retardant materials, proper training for performers and crew, and the use of appropriate safety equipment.
• 👍 Increasing audience confidence: By using a safety checklist, performers can help increase audience confidence in the safety of the performance. This can help build a positive reputation for the performers and the production company, and encourage future bookings

Venue:

A venue for a fire performance is the physical location where the performance will take place. This could be an outdoor location, such as a park or beach, or an indoor location, such as a theater or concert hall. When selecting a venue for a fire performance, it is important to consider several factors, such as the size of the venue, the location’s accessibility, and the presence of any potential hazards. The venue should be large enough to accommodate the performers and audience, and should have clear lines of sight and good acoustics.

If the performance is taking place outdoors, the venue should have a flat and level surface, and there should be no flammable materials or structures in the immediate area. Adequate lighting should be provided, especially if the performance is taking place at night. If the performance is taking place indoors, the venue should have adequate ventilation and a fire suppression system.

It may also be necessary to obtain permits or comply with local regulations, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the performance. A venue inspection is the evaluation of the proposed property , facility, building or room where a flame effect is to occur. Venue inspections are important to ensure the venue is appropriate for the proposed flame effects and the safety of the audience.

⁉️ Are the following items sufficient to support the Fire Performance?

• Ceiling Height
• Building Construction Materials
• Decor
• Ventilation
• Fire Suppression
• Exits
• Flooring Material

⁉️ Has the performer provided a verbal or written description of the floor plan?

Holding Area 

A holding area in a fire performance is a designated location near the performance area where performers can go to safely extinguish any flames on their body or props, or to seek shelter in case of emergency. A holding area should be easily accessible and clearly marked, and should be located in a safe area away from any potential hazards. The holding area should be free of any flammable materials or objects, and should be equipped with fire extinguishers and other fire suppression equipment.

Performers should be trained to recognize when they need to seek shelter in the hiding area, and should be familiar with the location and layout of the area. A designated safety officer or team should be responsible for monitoring the performance and ensuring that all safety procedures are followed, including the use of the holding area. Having a designated holding area can help ensure the safety of performers in case of accidents or emergencies, and can provide performers with the confidence and security they need to execute their routines safely and effectively 

⁉️ Is the holding area well lit with sufficient ventilation?

⁉️ Is the holding area isolated from any audience traffic?

⁉️ Are there a sufficient number of “No Smoking” Signs posted?

⁉️ Are all flame effect materials and devices that are not in use, stored in accordance with applicable codes, standards and any state and local regulations?

⁉️ Are all flammable flame effect materials and fueled devices in holding areas secured and/or supervised?

⁉️ Is the Spin-Out area the appropriate size with sufficient ventilation?

Hazard Area:

A hazard area in a fire show is a designated area where there is an increased risk of fire or other hazards during the performance. This may include areas where flammable materials or props are used, areas where performers are executing high-risk or complex routines, or areas where there is a high concentration of audience members. The hazard area should be clearly marked and communicated to all performers and crew members, and appropriate safety measures should be taken to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. This may include the use of fire suppression equipment, such as fire extinguishers or fire blankets, the establishment of clear boundaries or barriers to keep the audience at a safe distance, or the use of protective clothing or equipment.

Performers and crew members should be trained to recognize the hazards of the area and to follow all safety procedures and guidelines. A designated safety officer or team should be responsible for monitoring the performance and ensuring that all safety procedures are followed. Having a designated hazard area can help performers and crew members identify potential hazards and take steps to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries, helping to ensure a safe and successful fire show. 

⁉️ Are the following items sufficient to support the Fire Performance?

• Stage
• Safety Perimeter
• Stage Entrance/Exit
• Tool Extinguishment Location

⁉️ Is there an on-stage fuel requirement?

⁉️ If yes, is the fuel container appropriate for the performance?

⁉️ Is the Hazard Area in a neat and orderly condition?

Equipment:

Equipment in a fire performance safety checklist refers to the various tools, materials, and safety gear that performers and crew members should have on hand to ensure a safe and successful performance.

• ✅ Fire-retardant clothing: Performers should wear fire-retardant clothing, such as cotton or wool, that is resistant to flames and can help prevent burns.
• ✅ Protective gear: Depending on the nature of the performance, performers may need to wear additional protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, or helmets.
• ✅ Fire extinguishers: Fire extinguishers should be available in the performance area and in the hiding area, and performers and crew members should be trained on how to use them.
• ✅ Fire blankets: Fire blankets can be used to smother flames on performers or props, and should be readily available in the performance area and hiding area.
• ✅ Fuel storage containers: Fuel for props should be stored in a safe and secure location, away from any potential ignition sources.
• ✅ Fireproof props: Props used in the performance should be made from fireproof materials and should be thoroughly tested for safety.
• ✅ First aid kit: A first aid kit should be readily available in the performance area and hiding area, and performers and crew members should be trained on basic first aid techniques.

Including equipment in a fire performance safety checklist can help ensure that performers and crew members have the tools and materials they need to safely execute their routines and respond to emergencies

⁉️ Have all flame effect devices been tested to verify that they operate in accordance with their designs?

⁉️ Has a walk -through or representative demonstration of the flame effect devices been provided?

⁉️ Are there a sufficient number of fire extinguishers of the proper classification and size readily accessible for the performance?

⁉️ Are suitable methods for extinguishing flame effect devices readily accessible for the performance? This includes, but is not limited to duvetyn or damp towels and Fire extinguishers

Performers: 

Performers in a fire performer safety checklist refer to the individuals who will be performing the fire show. They are an important aspect of the safety checklist, as they will be the ones directly handling the fire and performing dangerous stunts. Performers should be trained and experienced in the specific techniques and routines they will be performing, and should be knowledgeable about fire safety and emergency procedures. They should also be aware of the potential hazards associated with the performance, and be able to identify and respond to potential risks or emergencies.In the fire performer safety checklist, performers should be evaluated based on their:

• ✅ Skill level: Performers should have a high level of skill and experience in the specific fire performance techniques they will be using.
• ✅ Physical fitness: Performers should be physically fit and able to execute their routines without risking injury or exhaustion.
• ✅ Training: Performers should receive regular training in fire safety and emergency procedures, and should be knowledgeable about the risks and hazards associated with their performance.
• ✅ Costume and equipment: Performers should wear appropriate fire-retardant clothing and protective gear, and should be trained in the safe use of props and equipment.
• ✅ Communication: Performers should be able to communicate effectively with each other and with crew members during the performance, and should be able to follow instructions from the safety officer or team.

Including performers in a fire performer safety checklist can help ensure that they have the necessary skills, training, and equipment to perform their routines safely and effectively

⁉️ Are the Fire Performers and Flame Effect assistants protected by clothing or other means suitable for their exposure to flame effects? (Bare skin is admissible)

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer demonstrated competency by training or experience?

⁉️ Are the Fire Performers under the influence of intoxicating beverages, narcotics, prescription drugs and/or non-prescription drugs that can impair judgement?

Verbal Plans:

Verbal plans in a fire performance safety checklist refer to the verbal communication that takes place between performers, crew members, and the designated safety officer or team during the performance.


Verbal plans may include:

• ✅ Emergency procedures: Performers and crew members should be trained in emergency procedures, such as how to quickly extinguish a fire or evacuate the performance area in case of emergency. Verbal plans should outline these procedures and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
• ✅ Communication: Verbal plans should establish clear lines of communication between performers, crew members, and the safety officer or team. This may include specific communication protocols for different situations, such as how to signal for help or how to report a potential hazard.
• ✅ Timing: Verbal plans should establish clear timing and cues for different parts of the performance, ensuring that everyone is coordinated and in sync.
• ✅ Contingency plans: Verbal plans should outline contingency plans for potential hazards or emergencies, such as what to do if a performer gets injured or if a prop malfunctions.
• ✅ Boundaries: Verbal plans should establish clear boundaries for the performance area, ensuring that the audience and performers stay at a safe distance and that there are no unauthorized individuals in the hazard area.

Including verbal plans in a fire performance safety checklist can help ensure that everyone involved in the performance is aware of the safety procedures and protocols, and can respond effectively in case of emergencyEvery Fire Performer should be able to provide a verbal narrative of their role within pre and post performance and emergency operations.

Pre-Show:

The pre-show of a fire safety checklist refers to the activities and procedures that take place before the actual fire performance. It is an important part of the safety checklist, as it helps ensure that all equipment and performers are prepared and ready for the performance.

The pre-show may include:

• ✅ Inspection of equipment: Performers and crew members should inspect all equipment, props, and costumes to ensure they are in good working order and free of defects or damage that could pose a safety hazard.
• ✅ Fuel handling and storage: Fuel should be handled and stored in a safe and secure manner, away from any potential ignition sources. Performers and crew members should ensure that all fuel containers are properly labeled and stored.
• ✅ Site inspection: A site inspection should be conducted to identify any potential hazards, such as low-hanging branches, uneven terrain, or flammable materials in the performance area. Hazards should be addressed and corrected before the performance begins.
• ✅ Pre-performance briefing: Performers and crew members should receive a pre-performance briefing that covers safety procedures and emergency protocols. This may include a walk-through of the performance routine and a review of safety precautions.
• ✅ Warm-up and stretching: Performers should engage in a warm-up and stretching routine to help prevent injuries during the performance.
• ✅ Dress rehearsal: A dress rehearsal should be conducted to ensure that all equipment and performers are coordinated and ready for the performance.

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer advised all performers and flame effect assistants that they are exposed to a potentially hazardous situation during the execution of the flame effects?

⁉️ Have the flame effects been evaluated to verify that the Fire Performer and the audience are not exposed to an unreasonably dangerous situation during the execution of the flame effects?

⁉️ Is the security of the Holding Area and Hazard Areas sufficient?

⁉️ Are there an appropriate number of trained Flame Effect Assistants (Safeties or Fire Watch) for the performance?

⁉️ Do the Flame Effect Assistants have a means of communicating an alarm?

Show:

The show in a fire safety performance checklist refers to the actual performance of the fire show. It is an important part of the safety checklist, as it is during the show that performers are handling fire and performing dangerous stunts.

During the show, the following safety measures should be in place:

• ✅ Monitoring: The designated safety officer or team should monitor the performance and be alert for any potential hazards or emergencies.
• ✅ Fire safety equipment: Fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and water sources, should be readily available in case of emergency.
• ✅ Hazard area: The hazard area should be clearly marked and secured to prevent unauthorized access, and performers should be trained to stay within the designated performance area.
• ✅ Crowd control: The audience should be kept at a safe distance from the performance area, and crowd control measures should be in place to prevent overcrowding or other safety hazards.
• ✅ Communication: Clear lines of communication should be established between performers, crew members, and the safety officer or team, to ensure that everyone is coordinated and able to respond quickly in case of emergency.
• ✅ Emergency response: Performers and crew members should be trained in emergency response procedures, such as how to quickly extinguish a fire or evacuate the performance area in case of emergency.

Including safety measures during the show in a fire safety performance checklist can help ensure that the performance is executed safely and effectively, with measures in place to prevent and respond to any potential hazards or emergencies

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer provided a detailed verbal description of the show?

⁉️ If any changes to a previously provided plan were made on the day of the performance (exact location, different safety perimeter, number of performers, etc.), have these changes been accounted for?

⁉️ If there is an on-stage fuel requirement, is the fuel stored in an appropriate container?

Post Show:

The post-show in a fire performers safety checklist refers to the activities and procedures that take place after the fire performance has ended. It is an important part of the safety checklist, as it helps ensure that all equipment is properly stored and all performers and crew members are safe.

The post-show may include:

• ✅ Inspection of equipment: Performers and crew members should inspect all equipment, props, and costumes to ensure they are properly stored and free of defects or damage that could pose a safety hazard.
• ✅ Disposal of fuel: Any remaining fuel should be disposed of in a safe and appropriate manner, following local regulations and guidelines.
• ✅ Cool-down period: Performers should engage in a cool-down period to help prevent injuries and promote recovery after the performance.
• ✅ Debriefing: A debriefing session should be held to discuss the performance and identify any areas for improvement or potential safety concerns.
• ✅ Medical evaluation: Performers who may have sustained injuries during the performance should receive a medical evaluation to ensure that they are safe and healthy.
• ✅ Clean-up: The performance area should be cleaned up and all equipment properly stored to ensure that it is ready for the next performance.

Including a post-show in a fire performers safety checklist can help ensure that all equipment is properly stored, performers and crew members are safe and healthy, and any potential safety concerns or hazards are identified and addressed for future performances

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer adequately cleaned-up the Hazard or Holding areas and performed a final Walk Through?

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer notified appropriate personnel that any interrupted life safety systems must now be immediately restored?

Emergency Operations (Safety Plan)

Emergency operations in a fire performer safety checklist refer to the procedures and protocols that should be in place to respond to emergencies during a fire performance. These procedures should be clearly defined and communicated to all performers and crew members to ensure a quick and coordinated response in case of emergency.


Emergency operations may include:

• ✅ Emergency response plan: A clear and detailed emergency response plan should be developed and communicated to all performers and crew members. The plan should include procedures for responding to fires, injuries, and other emergencies.
• ✅ Designated safety officer: A designated safety officer or team should be responsible for monitoring the performance and responding to emergencies. This person or team should be properly trained and equipped to handle emergencies and communicate effectively with performers and crew members.
• ✅ Fire safety equipment: Fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and water sources, should be readily available in case of emergency.
• ✅ Evacuation procedures: Clear evacuation procedures should be in place in case of emergency, including designated evacuation routes and assembly areas.
• ✅ Communication: Clear lines of communication should be established between performers, crew members, and the safety officer or team, to ensure that everyone is coordinated and able to respond quickly in case of emergency.
• ✅ First aid: First aid equipment and trained personnel should be available in case of injury or other medical emergencies.

Including emergency operations in a fire performer safety checklist can help ensure that performers and crew members are prepared and able to respond quickly and effectively in case of emergency, with measures in place to prevent and respond to any potential hazards or emergencies

⁉️ Has the Fire Performer provided an overview of their Safety Plan? 

⁉️ Does the Safety Plan include the following items:

• First aid
• Emergency Exit Plan/Retreat Path
• Fire Suppression
• Description and location of Safety and Suppression Equipment
• Emergency Response & Emergency Communications Plan
• Identification of Fire Safety Personnel (Flame Effect)

The utilization of a Fire Performance Safety Checklist is an essential and non-negotiable aspect of being a professional fire performer. This comprehensive tool serves as a lifeline, offering a safeguard against potential hazards and ensuring that the mesmerizing art of fire performance remains a captivating and safe spectacle for all involved. By diligently adhering to the checklist’s guidelines, a fire performer not only prioritizes their own safety but also demonstrates a profound respect for the audience and fellow artists.

The checklist’s role in risk mitigation cannot be overstated, as it encompasses crucial elements such as equipment inspection, proper fuel handling, and secure performance spaces, among others. By rigorously following these guidelines, fire performers can minimize the likelihood of accidents and ensure their art remains an exhilarating display rather than a perilous feat.

Moreover, embracing the Fire Performance Safety Checklist fosters a sense of professionalism and responsibility. As the audience witnesses the performer’s dedication to safety, their trust and appreciation for the craft deepen, enhancing the performer’s reputation as a responsible and skilled artist.

In essence, fire performance is not solely about the awe-inspiring display of flames but also about embodying the values of competence, mindfulness, and safety. By utilizing the Fire Performance Safety Checklist, performers can embrace these values wholeheartedly and enrich their artistry with a sense of purpose and accountability.

Aspiring and established fire performers alike must recognize that their true magic lies not only in their skillful performances but also in their commitment to safety and welfare. So, let the Fire Performance Safety Checklist be a guiding light that illuminates the path to awe-inspiring, risk-mitigated, and professional fire performances that continue to mesmerize audiences for generations to come.