Berkeley Township, New Jersey — Seven children were injured during a sudden “flash fire” at an outdoor firepit outside a home Wednesday night, sending multiple juveniles to area hospitals and prompting an active investigation by local authorities, police said.
The incident unfolded at a residence along North Trenton Avenue in Berkeley Township, where first responders were called late in the evening after reports that several children had suffered burns.
What happened Wednesday night
According to the Berkeley Township Police Department, officers and emergency crews were dispatched to the home at approximately 10 p.m. following a 911 call reporting that seven children had been burned.
When responders arrived, they found that all seven children had sustained injuries from a flash fire that occurred in an outdoor firepit, officials said. Authorities did not immediately release details about what caused the fire to flare suddenly or what materials were involved.
Emergency personnel assessed each child at the scene to determine the severity of their injuries.
Hospitalizations and medical treatment
Police said three of the seven children were transported to hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.
- Two children were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where they were treated and released later that night.
- A third child was taken to a hospital by a private vehicle, treated, and also released, according to officials.
The remaining four children were released to their parents or guardians at the scene and refused medical treatment, police said.
Authorities did not disclose the ages of the children involved or the extent of their burns, citing privacy considerations.
What is a flash fire?
Fire officials describe a flash fire as a rapid and intense ignition that can occur when flammable vapors or accelerants ignite suddenly, often producing a burst of flame without warning.
In outdoor firepit settings, flash fires can occur if:
- Accelerants such as gasoline or lighter fluid are used
- Flammable vapors build up before ignition
- Improper materials are added to an active or smoldering fire
Even brief exposure can result in burn injuries, particularly to exposed skin.
Investigation underway
Police said they are actively working to determine what led to the flash fire and whether any safety violations occurred.
An investigation is ongoing, officials said, as authorities examine the firepit setup, materials used, and events leading up to the incident.
At this time, police have not indicated whether any charges will be filed or whether the incident is being treated strictly as an accident. Fire officials are expected to assist with determining the cause.
Read Also: Newly Released FBI Records Detail Finances and Planning Behind Nashville Covenant School Shooting
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has not announced involvement in the case as of Thursday, suggesting the matter remains under local review unless further findings warrant escalation.
Community reaction and safety concerns
The incident has raised concerns among residents in Berkeley Township and across Ocean County, where backyard firepits are common, particularly during warmer months and social gatherings.
Parents in the neighborhood expressed relief that no children suffered life-threatening injuries but said the incident was a stark reminder of how quickly backyard activities can turn dangerous.
Fire safety experts emphasize that children should be kept at a safe distance from firepits at all times, and that adults should closely supervise any open flames during gatherings.
Firepit safety reminders for families
While the investigation continues, safety officials are urging residents to review basic outdoor fire safety practices, especially when children are present:
- Never use gasoline or flammable liquids to start or enhance a fire
- Only burn approved firewood or firepit fuel
- Keep children and pets well away from flames and hot embers
- Have water or a fire extinguisher nearby
- Avoid lighting fires during windy conditions
- Fully extinguish fires before leaving the area
Flash fires, officials warn, often happen within seconds and can catch even experienced adults off guard.
No life-threatening injuries reported
Despite the number of children involved, police said no life-threatening injuries have been reported, and all seven children were either treated and released or declined medical care.
Still, authorities stress that burn injuries can sometimes worsen over time, and parents are encouraged to seek medical attention if symptoms such as blistering, swelling, or pain increase.
What happens next
Investigators will continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the firepit incident, including whether the firepit met local safety guidelines and whether any prohibited materials were used.
Police said additional updates may be released once the investigation is complete.
As outdoor fires remain a popular backyard feature across New Jersey, officials hope the incident serves as a reminder of the serious risks associated with open flames, particularly when children are nearby.
Have you experienced or witnessed a close call involving a backyard firepit? Share your thoughts or safety tips in the comments, and join the discussion on how families can prevent similar incidents in the future.
