A fondue set exploded in a man's face after he used methylated spirits to try to light it.
Pukehina Volunteer Fire Brigade chief fire officer Errol Watts said it was a timely reminder not to use accelerants in such circumstances.
The man, aged in his 40s, was with family at a house
on Pukehina Parade on Saturday when they decided to have fondue.
Mr Watts said they had trouble lighting it so decided to pour on meths.
``But it blew up in his face,' Mr Watts said. ``He had burns to his face, head and hands.
``I wouldn't advise using meths to start a fire. He was lucky it wasn't any worse and the family took action quickly to cool the burns down.'
He said the man was taken into a shower before the fire brigade arrived.
He also had wet towels and ice applied to the burns.
``His skin was peeling off and it wasn't very pleasant,' Mr Watts said. ``I've not seen a fondue for a few years.' He said the fire brigade waited with the family until an ambulance arrived to take the man to Tauranga Hospital for treatment.
He was treated and discharged.
