A flaming shot is a novelty drink where high-proof alcohol (often 80 proof or higher) is intentionally ignited for a dramatic visual effect before consumption. The combination of high-ethanol liquid and an open flame creates a significant, avoidable hazard. Drinking this beverage introduces immediate risks of severe burns, thermal damage to internal tissues, and rapid alcohol intoxication, turning a moment of novelty into a potential medical emergency.
The Immediate Risk of External Burns
The greatest immediate danger exists before the liquid touches the lips, stemming from the open flame’s proximity to the drinker. Alcohol 80 proof or more easily sustains a flame, and higher proof leads to more intense and unpredictable fire. This flame is often nearly invisible, especially in bright lighting, making it difficult to gauge its size or spread.
A sudden movement, misplaced hand, or accidental spill can instantly spread fire to hair, clothing, or the face. The ignition of ethanol vapor above the liquid can flash quickly, leading to serious external burns. Injuries frequently involve the face and hands, resulting in second- or third-degree burns that require lengthy recovery, including potential skin grafting and permanent scarring.
Internal Thermal Damage to the Mouth and Airway
Drinking a shot that is still burning, or one that has just been extinguished, exposes the delicate mucosal tissues of the mouth and throat to extreme heat. Alcohol flames can heat the liquid and the glass rim to scorching temperatures, rapidly damaging the lining of the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus.
A particularly dangerous consequence is the inhalation of superheated vapor or steam, which causes internal burns deep within the respiratory tract. This heat injury causes tissue swelling (edema) in the throat and larynx. Edema in this region can rapidly compromise the airway, leading to breathing difficulties and asphyxiation if not treated immediately. This swelling may not peak until several hours after the initial injury, posing a life-threatening, delayed obstruction.
Systemic Effects of Consuming High-Proof Alcohol
The alcohol itself presents a distinct hazard due to the high concentration of ethanol. Flaming shots typically utilize liquor 80 proof or higher to ensure flammability. Rapidly consuming this concentrated alcohol leads to extremely fast absorption into the bloodstream and acute intoxication.
This rapid rise in blood alcohol concentration (BAC) increases the risk of alcohol poisoning, depressing the central nervous system and impairing vital functions. High BAC levels can suppress the gag reflex, significantly increasing the risk of choking on vomit if consciousness is lost. Faster consumption, encouraged by the novelty of the flame, compounds the danger of a toxic dose.
Necessary Steps for Emergency Response
Immediate action is necessary if a flaming shot results in injury, starting with extinguishing any external flames. If clothing or hair is on fire, the response is to stop, drop, and roll to smother the flames. Any hot or charred clothing and jewelry near the burn site should be removed quickly, unless stuck to the skin.
For thermal burns, the affected area should be cooled immediately by running cool (not ice-cold) tap water over it for 10 to 20 minutes. Ice or very cold water should be avoided as it can worsen tissue damage by causing vasoconstriction. If a person reports difficulty swallowing, a scratchy throat, or hoarseness after ingesting a hot liquid, emergency medical services must be called immediately. These symptoms signal internal swelling that can rapidly compromise the airway.