Doctor Tim Cockerill explores the science behind the most dangerous stunt in the firebreather’s repertoire – the human volcano.

From the volatility of the fuel to the fire breather’s technique, Tim explains how the trick is performed and how everything ultimately depends on the unique properties of oxygen.

Tim is a trained firebreather with over 15 years of experience in his craft. You should not try any of the stunts performed in this video at home or anywhere else.

Find out more about Tim and his traditional acts of the fairground sideshow, including walking on broken glass and the ‘human blockhead’ here.