What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a voluntary recall involving specific models of tabletop fire pits sold under the Five Below brand. This action, dated September 18, 2025, addresses units that pose a significant safety risk due to potential flame jetting and fire hazards. It is important for consumers to understand exactly which items are affected, as the recall covers two distinct product designs rather than a single universal model. By identifying these specific variations, Five Below aims to ensure that anyone who purchased one of these defective fire pits can take immediate steps to protect themselves and their homes.
The first group of recalled products consists of tabletop fire pits featuring a smooth black base. These units are packaged in boxes that come in three color variations: blue, yellow, and white. On the front of each box, the product is clearly labeled with the words "Tabletop Fire Pit" printed in white lettering. If you look at the back of the packaging, you will find the Universal Product Code (UPC) 1922343012788 and the tracking number FO031124. These items include a stainless-steel fuel cup, a lid, and a flame cover as standard components.
The second group of recalled products features a beveled gray base, designed to mimic the look of cement. These units are packaged in green boxes. The front of these packages displays the words "Outdoor," "Easy Modern," and "Cement Tabletop Firepit." Similar to the black-based models, these fire pits also include a stainless-steel fuel cup, a lid, and a flame cover. On the back of the green packaging, you will find the UPC 1922346316838 and the tracking number FO011925. Both sets of products share the same basic construction but differ in their aesthetic finish and packaging details.
While the recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units sold nationwide, it confirms that these items were distributed through Five Below retail locations and potentially online channels prior to the September 18, 2025 announcement. The distinction between the smooth black base and the beveled gray base is critical for identification. If you own a tabletop fire pit that matches either of these descriptions, it falls under this recall. The presence of the specific UPC numbers and tracking codes on the box back serves as the definitive proof of whether your item is part of this safety alert. Consumers are urged to check their packaging carefully against these details rather than relying solely on the general appearance of the product.
The hazard, explained
To understand why these tabletop fire pits are being recalled, it helps to look at the physics of how they are designed versus what can go wrong in practice. These units are intended to burn alcohol fuel (typically ethanol) in a contained stainless-steel cup. Under normal conditions, the flame should remain steady within the reservoir. However, the core issue with this specific recall is not necessarily that the fire pit will stop working, but that the containment fails during the critical moments of use and ignition.
The primary mechanism of failure involves the fuel reservoir itself. During use, or more dangerously, at the moment you attempt to light the pit, alcohol fuel can splash out of the bowl or leak from seams that are not fully sealed against liquid pressure. Alcohol fuels are highly volatile liquids with low flash points, meaning they ignite very easily and burn with a flame that is often clear or nearly invisible in daylight. When fuel splashes onto the hot surface of the fire pit or leaks onto nearby materials, it creates a pool of flammable liquid outside the intended containment area.
This external fuel is what leads to the "flash fire" hazard described by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). If that spilled fuel ignites—whether from the main flame in the cup, a stray spark, or ambient heat—it can flare up rapidly. This sudden expansion of flame creates a jet-like effect, forcing hot gases and fire outward rather than upward. Because the flames are no longer contained within the stainless-steel cup, they escape the unit entirely. This is known as "flame jetting," and it significantly increases the distance the fire reaches beyond the physical boundaries of the product.
The consequence of this escape is a severe burn risk to anyone nearby. Because the flames can spread quickly and become larger and hotter than the original controlled flame, they can easily reach legs, hands, or faces of users who are sitting close to the table. The heat intensity from a flash fire is far greater than that of a steady, contained burn, leading to deeper tissue damage in an instant. While Five Below has reported one incident where flames escaped, the potential for injury exists every time the fuel leaks or splashes, even if no fire currently occurs. The danger lies in the unpredictability of how far those escaping flames might travel and what they might touch.
It is also important to note that this hazard is not limited to just the burning phase. If fuel leaks while the unit is cold but then ignites later, or if the lid does not seal properly allowing fumes to accumulate, the risk of sudden ignition increases. The combination of a spill-prone design and the volatile nature of alcohol fuel creates a scenario where a minor handling error can quickly escalate into a serious safety emergency.
Who is most at risk
The tabletop fire pits recalled by Five Below are designed to bring the ambiance of an outdoor fire into home environments, often placing them on coffee tables, patio furniture, or indoor sideboards. While the product is marketed for general consumer use, certain groups face a disproportionately higher level of danger due to the specific mechanics of the failure mode—flame jetting and flash fires caused by alcohol fuel leaking from the reservoir.
Households with young children are among the most vulnerable populations in this scenario. The recalled units are compact tabletop items, which means they sit at a height and location easily accessible to curious toddlers or small children who might climb onto furniture or reach for objects on lower tables. Children have thinner skin than adults, making them significantly more susceptible to severe burn injuries from even brief exposure to high-temperature flames. Furthermore, their natural curiosity may lead them to touch the hot stainless-steel fuel cup or attempt to interact with the lid during use, increasing the likelihood of direct contact with the hazard before the leak even occurs.
Elderly individuals and those with limited mobility also face heightened risks. If a flash fire occurs or flames escape the unit, an older adult may have slower reaction times or physical limitations that prevent them from quickly moving away from the source of the burn. Additionally, many elderly consumers live alone or have reduced strength to handle heavy or hot objects safely. The sudden nature of a "flash fire" caused by splashing alcohol fuel leaves little time for cognitive processing or physical maneuvering, making immediate evacuation from the hazard zone critical and often difficult for this demographic.
Anyone using these fire pits in close proximity to flammable materials—such as curtains, wooden furniture, or upholstery—is also at elevated risk. The recall notes that flames can escape the unit and spread. If a child or adult is seated nearby on a sofa or chair when the fuel ignites, the combination of heat exposure and potential clothing ignition creates a compounded danger. Pets, particularly cats or small dogs that might jump onto tables where the fire pit is placed, are similarly at risk of severe burns and panic-induced injuries.
Ultimately, the risk is universal to anyone who owns or uses these specific models, but it is most acute for those who cannot react quickly or protect themselves physically. The lack of reported injuries to date is fortunate, but the potential for serious harm remains high for vulnerable users in any household where these fire pits are present.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you recently purchased a tabletop fire pit from Five Below, it is important to carefully inspect your product to determine whether it falls under this specific recall. Because the hazard involves potential flame jetting and fire risks during use, accurate identification is crucial for your safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified two distinct models of these fire pits that are subject to this recall. To verify if your unit is affected, you need to look closely at both the physical characteristics of the fire pit itself and the packaging it came in.
First, examine the base of the fire pit. The recalled units come in one of two designs: a smooth black base or a beveled gray base. Regardless of the base color, both models will include a stainless-steel fuel cup, a lid, and a flame cover. If your unit matches these physical descriptions, you should then check the box it was sold in, as this is the most reliable way to confirm the model.
If your fire pit has a smooth black base, it would have been packaged in a blue, yellow, or white box. Look at the front of the box for the words "Tabletop Fire Pit" printed in white lettering. On the back of this packaging, you must verify two specific codes: the UPC should be 1922343012788, and the tracking number should be FO031124. If all these details match, your product is part of the recall.
Alternatively, if your fire pit has a beveled gray base, it would have been sold in green box packaging. The front of this green box will display the words "Outdoor," "Easy Modern," and "Cement Tabletop Firepit." To confirm this model is included, check the back of the box for the UPC 1922346316838 and the tracking number FO011925. It is essential to check these numbers precisely, as even a small difference in the UPC or tracking code may indicate a different product not covered by this specific safety notice.
If you cannot find the original packaging, Five Below has provided alternative steps for verification and resolution. You can contact their consumer service team directly at 844-452-3569 (available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) or email Recalls@FiveBelow.com. They may ask you to send a photo of the fire pit along with your name and the date written on the product in permanent marker to help them identify the unit. If you are unsure, it is always safer to assume the product is recalled until you have confirmed otherwise through these official channels.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Five Below tabletop fire pits, the most critical action you can take right now is to immediately stop using the product. The risk involves alcohol fuel potentially splashing or leaking from the reservoir during use or ignition, which can cause a flash fire with flames that may escape the unit and lead to serious burn injuries. There is no safe way to continue using these items until they have been properly addressed by the manufacturer. Please do not attempt to repair the defect yourself, as this could worsen the safety issue. Instead, follow these clear steps to resolve the situation safely and efficiently. First, identify which model you have so you know exactly what you are dealing with. Look at your fire pit’s base: one version has a smooth black base, while the other features a beveled gray base. Both should include a stainless-steel fuel cup, a lid, and a flame cover. Check the packaging if you still have it. The black-base models come in blue, yellow, or white boxes with "Tabletop Fire Pit" printed in white on the front, along with UPC 1922343012788 and tracking number FO031124 on the back. The gray-base models are in green boxes labeled "Outdoor," "Easy Modern," and "Cement Tabletop Firepit," with UPC 1922346316838 and tracking number FO011925 on the back. If you no longer have the box, the physical description of the base and the printed codes on the bottom of the unit itself will help confirm if it is part of this recall. Next, decide how you would like to receive your refund. Five Below is offering a full refund equal to the purchase price or $5, whichever is applicable, and proof of purchase is not required. You have two main options for getting your money back. Option one is to return the fire pit to any Five Below store. When you bring it in, you will receive a refund in the original form of payment, whether that was cash, card, or store credit. This is often the quickest method if you have a receipt or can simply get store credit for immediate use. Option two is to handle everything by mail or email, which is helpful if you do not live near a Five Below location. To do this, take a clear photo of the fire pit. On the product itself, write your name and today’s date in permanent marker so they can verify it is yours. Send this photo along with your contact information to Recalls@FiveBelow.com. Once processed, you will receive a refund either as a check by mail or as store credit. This method ensures you do not have to leave your home if you are uncomfortable handling the product further. Finally, dispose of the recalled fire pit safely after you have arranged for your refund. Do not donate it, sell it, or give it away. Since the hazard involves potential flame jetting and fire risks, proper disposal prevents anyone else from accidentally using it. Follow local waste guidelines for disposing of metal and plastic components. If you have questions about the process, you can call Five Below toll-free at 844-452-3569 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit their website at https://www.fivebelow.com/info/five-below-recalls-tabletop-fire-pit for more details.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Five Below tabletop fire pits, it is important to know that there is no option for a simple repair. Because the safety issue involves the fundamental design of the fuel reservoir—specifically the risk that alcohol fuel can splash or leak during use—the manufacturer cannot fix the problem with a part or a service. Instead, the remedy provided by Five Below is a full refund. This means you will get your money back, allowing you to dispose of the unsafe unit and replace it with a safer alternative if you still wish to enjoy outdoor fire features. The good news is that the process has been designed to be as straightforward and low-friction as possible for consumers.
You have two primary ways to initiate this refund, and neither requires you to dig out your original receipt. Proof of purchase is not required to receive a full refund, which removes a common barrier in recall processes. The first method is the traditional return. You can contact Five Below directly by calling their toll-free number at 844-452-3569. Their support team is available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. When you speak with them, they will guide you through returning the fire pit. If you choose this route and send the item back, you will receive your refund in the original form of payment you used at the time of purchase, whether that was cash or store credit.
The second method is designed for maximum convenience if you prefer not to handle shipping or visit a post office. You can opt for a remote refund by sending an email to Recalls@FiveBelow.com. To do this, you simply need to take a clear photo of the recalled fire pit. Crucially, you must write your name and the current date on the product itself using a permanent marker before taking the picture. This step helps verify that you are the owner and provides a timestamp for their records. Include this photo along with your contact information in the email. Once processed, Five Below will send you a refund in the form of a check or store credit. You can also find more details and initiate these processes online at https://www.fivebelow.com/info/five-below-recalls-tabletop-fire-pit or by visiting https://www.fivebelow.com/ and clicking on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page.
Please remember that while you wait for your refund, you should stop using the fire pit immediately. The remedy is a full refund equal to the purchase price or $5, whichever applies, but the priority is ensuring the unit is removed from your home. Once you have received your refund and confirmed the process is complete, you should dispose of the recalled fire pits safely. Do not donate them or give them away, as they still pose a risk of flame jetting and serious burn injury to others.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a tabletop fire pit and see only ambiance—the gentle flicker of flame for a dinner party or a cozy evening on the patio. However, ignoring a recall is not just about missing out on a refund; it is about accepting a risk that Five Below has identified as potentially serious. The core issue with these specific models is not that the fire pit will simply stop working, but that the fuel system can fail in a dangerous way during normal use. If you continue to use the recalled units, you are allowing alcohol fuel to pool or leak from the reservoir in an uncontrolled manner. This is not a minor inconvenience like a spilled drink; it is a volatile chemical hazard.
When alcohol fuel splashes or leaks out of the designated cup and spreads across the base or surrounding surfaces, it creates a pathway for fire that should not exist. The recall notice specifically warns of "flame jetting," which means the fire can shoot outward from the unit rather than staying contained within the metal bowl. This happens because the leaked fuel ignites instantly upon contact with the heat source, creating a flash fire. This flash can spread rapidly across the tabletop or deck surface, turning a small decorative flame into a larger, hotter blaze that escapes the unit entirely. For anyone sitting close by, this sudden expansion of fire presents a direct and immediate risk of serious burn injury.
While Five Below has currently reported one incident where flames escaped from a fire pit, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the hazard is mild. It means we have been lucky so far. Alcohol fires are particularly difficult to extinguish with water and can spread faster than many people realize. If you ignore this warning, you are risking more than just property damage to your patio furniture or deck; you are risking personal safety. The potential for a sudden flare-up increases the likelihood of accidental contact with skin or clothing, leading to burns that can range from painful first-degree injuries to severe third-degree damage requiring medical intervention.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall means keeping a defective product in your home. These fire pits are designed to be safe only when the fuel is contained within the stainless-steel cup. Once that containment fails, the unit becomes an unpredictable fire hazard. By continuing to use it, you are essentially gambling with your safety and the safety of your guests. There is no benefit to keeping a product that can suddenly eject flames toward your face or hands. The consequence of inaction is staying vulnerable to a known, serious risk that could have been eliminated with a simple return.