Random question about all the tiki torches in Hawaii.... aren't they worried about fire??
 

So this has been bugging me since our recent visit to Hawaii...

We loved all the pretty tiki torches scattered throughout the resorts - and especially enjoyed the nightly lighting rituals. But frequently we couldn't help but notice how CLOSE the flames came to the surrounding vegetation. Many times they were frightening close to trees/plants/etc.

I'm just trying to figure out why these plants don't catch on fire - or why fire doesn't seem to be a big concern. Anyone know the answer??

I think they are fake!

Wet plants don't often burn.
The moisture content is high and the chance of fire is low.
Ever notice that you don't hear of forest fires during snow season?

The palm trees are regularly cleaned from their dry fronds and they do not allow the torches near dry grass, which often catching on fire in Hawaii from other sources.

LOL! Chances are they are soaked with fluid and the flame will not spread.

I have about 15 on my deck and some are quite close to the house and I've never had a problem.

It is hard for healthy vegitation to catch fire.

If the plants were fake they'd be a glow in flames in a hot NY minute. A reason many municipalities have enacted laws that greenery must be live to inhibit the possible spread of fire.

Sometimes they are citranella (?) torches to keep the mosquitos away. If it's a woody area, the torches are necessities otherwise people would get eaten alive!