Expert: Henry Boyter - 3/24/2008

Question
Ok. I am a Youth Camp Leader and I was wondering if there is any safe chemicals that I can put into the fire to change the color? I have used handfuls of sugar to make sparks as well as coffee creamer powder to make a sort of sparkly flashes, but is there anything I can use to make colors?

Answer
You can buy crystal kits and premade pine cones.  These can be found online or at fireplace stores.  Do not try to make these mixes yourself.  Pay the extra $$$ to buy the safer premade mixes.

http://www.homeandbeyond.com/prod-0094829.html

http://www.woodlanddirect.com/Fireplace-Accessories/Fireplace-Scents-Colors


You should also read the hazards of these things.

http://www.sciencecompany.com/sci-exper/flamecolors.htm

http://chemistry.about.com/cs/howtos/a/aa052703a.htm

You mention the term "safe".  If handled according to instructions, these premades will be relatively safe.  If you let your campers eat the mix, it is not safe.  Of course the same is true of the fire itself.  As a Camp Leader you have to weigh the risks and dangers of your situation.  If you want absolutely safe, you pretty much have to skip the camp totally.