1. Biological Sterilization with ethanol and open flame
Beware of ethanol fires

2. Ethanol Fires Incident – Ethanol fire burns researcher, July 2011
Burned ice bucket
and chair
Bunsen burner flame
Ethanol bottle
A researcher was plating bacteria onto a petri dish using ethanol and a Bunsen burner as part of a standard sterile transfer on a lab bench. Somehow, the jar of ethanol spilled on the lab bench and onto the researcher's bare arms and t-shirt, and caught fire.

3. Ethanol fires What caused the incident? How could it be prevented?
Almost full jar of ethanol being used too close to the burner
How could it be prevented?
Keep alcohol container at least 12 inches from the burner
Cap the container of the alcohol in between use to avoid spills
Use alternative ways for sterile plating like glass beads
In case of a fire, what should be done?
Immediately use safety shower to prevent serious burns
Other lessons -
Know the location of safety showers and fire extinguisher for quicker response
Wear a lab coat when working with hazardous and biological materials