Paraffin:
Paraffin (also known as kerosene in the US and other places) is the cheapest fuel around and very easy to get hold of in most petrol stations and hardware shops. Although a little smokey, it is the preferred fuel for most fire performers. It burns at a relatively low temperature and is not explosive like petrol (which must not be used under any circumstances). Although it is probably the safest fuel around for fire juggling and spinning, it is still dangerous and should be treated with care and respect. Proper safety precautions should be followed at all times. Watch out for aqueous paraffin sold in continental europe which is sometimes sold as paraffin. This stuff is not liquid enough and ends up spitting little drops of burning liquid everywhere.
Kerosene:
Kerosene is the same stuff as paraffin. The name kerosene is used in the US and Australasia. Refer to paraffin for details.
Lamp oil:
Lamp oil is also quite popular in the fire toy world. It costs a little more than paraffin but burns much cleaner (less smokey). Lamp oil also burns at a relatively low temperature so is well suited to the skill. As with all fuels, it is still dangerous and should be treated with care.
Fire water:
If you can find it, this is probably the best fuel on the market to date. As far as we are aware, you can only get hold of this in Australia. We have been asked many times whether or not we could import the stuff, and the answer is simple: it’s illegal to post flammable liquids.
Barbeque lighting fuel:
Barbeque lighting fuel can be used if you cannot find any of the suitable fuels mentioned above. Although it works well, it burns at a higher temperature than paraffin and is therefore not recommended.
White spirit, methylated spirits:
These fuels do work but are not recommended as the fumes they release are toxic, and the flames are very hot. Instead, go down to your local petrol station and get yourself some paraffin. I know its easier to dig out a bottle of white spirit from your garage, but its not worth the risk.
Petrol:
NEVER USE PETROL, EVER. Petrol does not burn, it explodes. If you try and use petrol you will hurt yourself and others around you. You cannot dilute it, you cannot make it safe and you cannot use it as a temporary substitute. PETROL IS NOT A SUITABLE FUEL.
Diesel:
NEVER USE DIESEL. It is not suitable and may be very dangerous depending on the temperature of your wicks. DIESEL IS NOT A SUITABLE FUEL.
